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Callum

♂ Boy

Pronounced KAL-um /ˈkæl.əm/High

Meaning: Dove; Scottish Gaelic form of Columba (Latin: dove)High

In 30 seconds: A Scottish Gaelic form of Columba, meaning 'dove.' Carried by Saint Columba, who brought Christianity to Scotland, Callum pairs deep Celtic heritage with a friendly, modern sound.
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Origin HighScottish Gaelic, Latin
MeaningDove; Scottish Gaelic form of Columba (Latin: dove)
Peak year2017
Total births (all-time)≈ 4,322

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 201719832017

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Callum is the Scottish Gaelic form of the Latin name Columba, meaning 'dove.' Saint Columba of Iona (521–597), one of the most important figures in Celtic Christianity, bore this name. The dove is a Christian symbol of peace and the Holy Spirit, giving the name deep spiritual resonance. Callum has been used in Scotland for centuries.

Callum has been among the most popular boys' names in Scotland for several decades. It entered wider English-speaking usage in the late 20th century and has risen in the United States in the 2000s and 2010s. Its crisp two-syllable sound, Celtic heritage, and gentle meaning make it a strong choice for parents seeking a name that is uncommon in the U.S. yet established in Britain.

Did you know? Saint Columba (521–597 CE), the Irish monk who founded the monastery of Iona and evangelized Scotland, bore the Latin name Columba ('dove') — the direct ancestor of Callum.

Variations

CalumColumColumbaMalcolm

Nicknames

Cal

Famous Bearers

  • ★Callum Turner (b. 1990)
    British actor known for <em>Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald</em> and <em>The Boys in the Boat</em>.

If you like Callum…

Declan— Irish Celtic name with the same crisp two-syllable appeal
Graham— Scottish surname name with the same refined transatlantic appeal

Frequently Asked

What does the name Callum mean?

Callum means 'dove,' as the Scottish Gaelic form of Latin Columba. It is associated with Saint Columba, who evangelized Scotland.

How do you pronounce Callum?

Callum is pronounced KAL-um (/ˈkæl.əm/) — two syllables with stress on the first.

Is Callum a boy or girl name?

Callum is used exclusively as a boy's name.

How popular is Callum?

Callum is one of Scotland's most popular boys' names and has been rising in the U.S. since the 2000s.