Rising since 1994, #2,304 for boys today.
Popularity of Kal since 1947
Babies named Kal per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 11 |
| 1950s | 63 |
| 1960s | 76 |
| 1970s | 53 |
| 1980s | 70 |
| 1990s | 79 |
| 2000s | 116 |
| 2010s | 420 |
| 2020s | 368 |
Meaning & origin
Kal is a short, crisp name that has been in sporadic use since 1947, when it first appeared in U.S. records. Its peak popularity came in 2021, when it reached its highest rank to date. Over the past three decades, the name has been on a rising trajectory since 1994, reflecting a broader trend toward concise, modern-sounding names. Kal is most common in Utah, California, and Texas, suggesting a regional appeal. Despite its simplicity, Kal has maintained a niche presence without entering mainstream popularity, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name that is both easy to say and uncommon.
Kal most often functions as a shortened form of longer names such as Kalan, Kale, or Kalvin. It has also seen some use as an independent given name, particularly in the United States from the mid-20th century onward. Its simplicity and ease of pronunciation have contributed to its modest but steady usage.
Where Kal is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Cal
Sibling names for Kal
Names that share Kal's style, for a brother or sister.
