Declining since 2009, #2,718 for boys today.
Popularity of Cale since 1917
Babies named Cale per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 8 |
| 1920s | 5 |
| 1930s | 11 |
| 1940s | 11 |
| 1950s | 27 |
| 1960s | 119 |
| 1970s | 705 |
| 1980s | 1,390 |
| 1990s | 1,423 |
| 2000s | 2,721 |
| 2010s | 1,554 |
| 2020s | 233 |
Meaning & origin
Cale has been in use as a masculine given name in the United States since at least 1917, the year of its first recorded appearance in Social Security data. It saw a gradual rise through the 20th century, reaching its peak popularity in 2008. Since 2009, its usage has been on a declining trajectory, though it remains in steady use. The name is most popular in Colorado, its top state. With a current rank of 2718 and a rate of about 1 in every 36,342 boys, Cale is an uncommon but not unheard of choice. Its etymology is uncertain, with plausible connections to Gaelic roots meaning 'slender' or to the Irish name Cael, giving it a subtle Celtic flavor without being tied to any single cultural tradition.
Cale is a name of uncertain origin, most frequently linked to the Irish and Scottish Gaelic word 'caol' meaning 'slender' or 'narrow'. It may also be a variant of the Irish name Cael, used in early medieval legend. In modern times, Cale has been used as a given name in English-speaking countries, sometimes as a short form of Caleb or a respelling of Cade. Its usage increased notably in the United States during the late 20th century.
Where Cale is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Cale
Names that share Cale's style, for a brother or sister.
