Calum is a Scottish name that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is a variant of the name Callum and is derived from the Latin word “Columba,” which means “dove.” The name has a rich history and is associated with St. Columba, one of the most influential early Celtic saints.
The name Calum has a peaceful meaning and is often associated with purity, peace, and the Holy Spirit. It is primarily a masculine name of Scottish and Gaelic origin. The name has been popular in the British Isles and is slowly gaining popularity in other parts of the world.
If you are considering naming your child Calum, it is important to understand the meaning and significance of the name. In this article, we will explore the history and origin of the name Calum, its popularity, and the various nicknames associated with it. We will also provide some tips on how to choose the perfect middle name to complement Calum. So, let’s dive into the fascinating world of Calum and discover what makes this name so special.
Origin of the Name Calum
Calum is a Scottish Gaelic name that has a rich history and is closely associated with the Latin name Columba, which means ‘dove.’ The name Calum is a variant of the name Callum, which is popular in the British Isles and carries a peaceful meaning.
The name Calum was popular among early Christians because the dove was a symbol of purity, peace, and the Holy Spirit. St. Columba, also known as Colum Cille, was one of the most influential of the early Celtic saints. He was an Irish abbot and missionary who founded the monastery on the island of Iona, which became a major center of Christianity in Scotland.
The name Calum has a deep connection to Scottish culture and history. It is a popular name in Scotland and is often used to honor the country’s heritage. In addition to Scotland, the name is also common in Ireland and other parts of the world where Celtic culture has had an influence.
The name Calum has several variations, including Columba, Colum, Colm, Columb, Colombo, Koloman, and Colombano. It is also sometimes spelled as Calum or Callahan. The name has a strong association with peace, purity, and the Holy Spirit, making it a popular choice for parents who want to give their child a meaningful and significant name.
Meaning of Calum
Calum is a Gaelic name that is derived from the Latin name Columba, which means “dove.” In early Christianity, the dove was a symbol of purity, peace, and the Holy Spirit. St. Columba, one of the early Celtic saints, was highly influential in spreading Christianity throughout Scotland and Ireland.
The name Calum has a peaceful and calming connotation, which is fitting given its association with the dove. It is a unisex name and is popular in the British Isles.
Parents who choose the name Calum for their child may do so because of its connection to peace and purity. It is a name that conveys a sense of tranquility and calmness.
In summary, Calum is a Gaelic name that means “dove” and is associated with peace, purity, and the Holy Spirit. It is a popular unisex name in the British Isles and has a calming connotation.
Popularity of the Name Calum
Calum is a popular name in the British Isles, particularly in Scotland and England. It is a form of the name Callum, which means “dove”. In 2021, Calum ranked #838 in the US, according to Nameberry. However, it has been steadily decreasing in popularity in recent years, dropping 49 spots from 2022 to 2023, according to BabyCenter user data.
In England, Calum was the 721st most popular name in 2018, according to the Office for National Statistics. In Scotland, it was the 85th most popular name in 2017. It is not as commonly used in Wales.
Despite its decreasing popularity, Calum remains a beloved name for parents who want a unique yet traditional name for their baby boy. It is a simple yet elegant name that has a peaceful meaning.
Some parents may prefer alternative spellings of the name, such as Callum or Kallum. These variations are also popular and have similar meanings.
Variations of the Name Calum
The name Calum has a few variations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the most common variations:
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Callum: This is the most popular variation of the name Calum. It is also the original name from which Calum was derived. Callum is a Scottish Gaelic name that means “dove”. It was a popular name among early Christians because the dove was a symbol of purity, peace, and the Holy Spirit.
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Coleman: Coleman is an Irish name that means “dove”. It is a variant of the name Colm, which is also related to the name Columba. Colm means “dove” as well, and it was a popular name in Ireland in the early Christian period.
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Cullen: Cullen is an Irish name that means “handsome”. It is not directly related to the name Calum, but it has a similar sound and feel. Cullen is a popular name in Ireland and the United States.
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Asher: Asher is a Hebrew name that means “happy” or “blessed”. It is not related to the name Calum, but it has a similar meaning. Asher is a popular name in Israel and the United States.
Overall, the variations of the name Calum are unique and meaningful. Whether you choose to use the original name or one of its variants, you can be sure that your child will have a name that is rich in history and significance.
Famous People Named Calum
Calum is a popular name that has been used by many famous people across different fields. Here are some notable individuals named Calum:
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Calum Best: Calum Best is a British-American television personality and model. He is the son of former Manchester United footballer George Best.
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Calum Chambers: Calum Chambers is an English professional footballer who currently plays as a defender for Premier League club Arsenal.
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Calum Hood: Calum Hood is an Australian musician and bassist for the pop-rock band 5 Seconds of Summer.
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Calum Scott: Calum Scott is a British singer and songwriter who rose to fame after appearing on the ninth series of Britain’s Got Talent.
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Callum Keith Rennie: Callum Keith Rennie is a Canadian actor who has appeared in various television shows and films, including Battlestar Galactica, Due South, and Memento.
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Calum Worthy: Calum Worthy is a Canadian actor and writer who is best known for his role as Dez on the Disney Channel series Austin & Ally.
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Calum Gittins: Calum Gittins is a New Zealand actor who is best known for his role as Haleth in the Lord of the Rings film trilogy.
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Calum MacLeod: Calum MacLeod is a Scottish cricketer who has played for the Scotland national cricket team.
These are just a few of the many famous individuals named Calum who have made a name for themselves in their respective fields.
Calum in Popular Culture
The name Calum has made appearances in various forms of popular culture, including television shows and music. Here are a few notable examples:
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Neighbours: Calum Rebecchi is a character in the Australian soap opera, Neighbours. He is the son of Jarrod “Toadfish” Rebecchi and Sonya Mitchell, and was born in 2014. Calum is portrayed as a mischievous child with a heart of gold.
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Eastenders: Calum “Halfway” Highway is a character in the British soap opera, Eastenders. He is a former soldier who first appeared on the show in 2018. Calum is portrayed as a loyal and caring friend, and has been involved in several dramatic storylines.
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813: “Calum Hood” is a song by the American rapper, 813. The song features a sample of a woman saying “Calum Hood”, which is believed to be a reference to the bassist of the Australian band, 5 Seconds of Summer.
Overall, while the name Calum may not be as prominent in popular culture as some other names, it has still made its mark in various forms of media.
Symbolism and Influence of the Name Calum
The name Calum is derived from the Latin name Columba, which means ‘dove’. In Christian faith, the dove is a symbol of the Holy Spirit, representing hope, love, and peace. This symbolism has made the name Calum popular among early Christians.
St. Columba, also known as Colmcille, was an Irish abbot and missionary evangelist who is credited with introducing Christianity to Scotland at the beginning of the Hiberno-Scottish mission. He was one of the most influential of the early Celtic saints, and his legacy is still felt today in Scotland and beyond.
The name Calum invokes proactivity, fairness, and exhilaration. The first vowel ‘A’ in the name reflects the life lesson and challenge of the name, which is to be proactive and take action towards achieving goals.
Overall, the name Calum carries with it a rich history and symbolism that has influenced many people throughout the centuries. From the early Christians who saw the dove as a symbol of purity and peace, to the Celtic saints who spread Christianity throughout Scotland, the name Calum has had a lasting impact on the world.
Calum as a Baby Name
Calum is a popular baby name, especially in the British Isles. It is a form of the boy name Callum, which carries a peaceful meaning. The name is primarily of Scottish and Gaelic origin and is derived from the Latin word “Columba,” meaning “dove.”
The name Calum is associated with qualities such as strength and a kind heart. It is a name that can bring a sense of warmth and comfort to any home.
While Calum is typically used as a boy’s name, it can also be a unique and beautiful choice for a girl. In fact, it has been used as a girl’s name in the past, particularly in Scotland.
Overall, Calum is a versatile and meaningful name that can bring a sense of peace and strength to any family.
The Name Calum in Different Cultures
The name Calum has its roots in the Scottish Gaelic language and is derived from the Latin word “Columba,” which means “dove.” The name has a rich history and is associated with various cultures.
Scottish Culture
Calum is a popular name in Scotland and is often used as a given name for boys. In fact, it was the 34th most common boy’s name in Scotland in 2017. The name is associated with Saint Columba, an Irish missionary who brought Christianity to Scotland in the sixth century.
German Culture
In German culture, the name Calum is derived from the name Koloman, which means “dove.” It was a popular name in the Middle Ages and is still used today.
Italian Culture
In Italian culture, the name Calum is derived from the name Colombo or Colombano, which means “dove.” It is a popular name in Italy and is often used as a given name for boys.
Slovak Culture
In Slovak culture, the name Calum is derived from the name Koloman, which means “dove.” It is a popular name in Slovakia and is often used as a given name for boys.
In conclusion, the name Calum has a rich history and is associated with various cultures. It is a popular name in Scotland, Germany, Italy, and Slovakia, and is often used as a given name for boys.