Caleb
Caleb comes from the Hebrew "Kalev," of uncertain meaning. The most popular theory traces it to "k-levav" — "like the heart" — meaning wholehearted, faithful. A second, less flattering theory derives it from "kelev" (dog). In the Hebrew Bible, Caleb was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to scout the Promised Land. Only he and Joshua brought back a positive report, and only they were allowed to enter Canaan. Caleb entered the US top 1000 in 1967 and climbed steadily. It was in the top 50 from 1996 to 2020. Caleb Bradham (1867-1934), the pharmacist who invented Pepsi-Cola in 1893, is the most famous American bearer. Caleb (the character in the 2015 film "Ex Machina") gave the name a contemporary sci-fi charge. I find Caleb has a brisk, slightly biblical quality — the "C" opening is firm, and the single syllable is direct. The "b" ending gives it weight. Caleb has been one of the most successful Old Testament revival names. Caleb is a male name of Hebrew origin that means "Faithful, devoted (or "dog")". Brisk, biblical, and faithful. The name sounds direct. Calebs tend to be steady. US top 50 from 1996-2020. Well-known people named Caleb include Caleb (biblical spy), Caleb Bradham (Pepsi inventor), Caleb (Ex Machina character), Caleb (fictional, various). Common variations and related forms of Caleb include Kaleb (variant), Kalev (Hebrew), Cal (short form), Cale (variant).