Origin
Caileb is a variant spelling of Caleb, which originates from Hebrew, meaning 'faithful, devotion to God'. The name appears in biblical texts as one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan (Numbers 13-14). In Australian history and culture, Caleb has been adopted by early settlers and has gained popularity for its biblical roots and strong cultural resonance.
Meaning
Literal translation is 'faithful' or 'devotion to God'. In the Australian English context, it connotes loyalty, faithfulness, and steadfastness, often associated with reliability and trustworthiness.
Pronunciation
/ˈkeɪ.lɛb/ (KAY-ləb) — stress on the first syllable. Australian English pronunciation slightly lengthens the vowels and emphasizes clarity in speech patterns.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Caleb (original), Caileb (variant spelling), Kale (short form), Cale (short form)
- Original Hebrew: כָּלֵב (Kalev)
- Other variants include Kale, Kaleb (more common in modern contexts), and Kaleigh (rare for females)
Nicknames
- Cal
- Caley
- Kale
- Leb
Name Days
- 28 September (Feast of Saint Caleb, recognised in some Christian calendars)
- 15 July (Christian Feast of Saint Wilfrid, sometimes associated in broader religious observances)
- Māori: 25 February (Māori Language Day celebrations often feature names of biblical origin including Caleb)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with caileb:
- Grace and Caleb
- Oliver and Caleb
- Charlotte and Caleb
Fun Facts
- The name Caleb was popularised in Australia through biblical references and has seen fluctuations in popularity with peaks in the early 2000s.
- Famous Australian athletes and entertainers with the name include Caleb Ewan (cyclist).
- The variant spelling 'Caileb' has gained popularity as a unique or creative alternative, especially among parents who prefer a distinct spelling.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name caileb:
- Loyal
- Reliable
- Devoted
- Trustworthy
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has a solid, classical appearance with a balanced phonetic structure that looks appealing in both formal and casual contexts. The spelling 'Caileb' adds a modern, distinctive aesthetic, appealing to contemporary parents.
Geographical Distribution
Most common in urban areas like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, where biblical names tend to predict social trends, but also present in rural areas especially among Christian communities.
Numerological Significance
Calculates to number 5 in Pythagorean numerology, representing adaptability, freedom, and dynamic change, often associated with adventurous and curious personalities.
Astrological Connections
Name is associated with the zodiac signs Aries and Leo due to its energetic and lively attributes, aligning with traits of leadership and confidence, especially for those born in late summer.
Historical Context
The name Caleb features prominently in biblical literature and has been embraced in Australian religious communities. Its usage grew among early European settlers and has been reinforced through religious education and popular media.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts easily into various languages with similar phonetics, with local spellings like Kalev in Estonian, and variations in Hebrew and Greek. In Māori or Aboriginal languages, it tends to be transliterated without direct roots, but it remains primarily an imported biblical name.
Famous People Named caileb
- Caleb Ewan (Cyclist)
- Caleb Followill (Lead singer of Kings of Leon, though not Australian, popular in Australia)
- Saint Caleb (Biblical figure)
Popularity in Australia
| Year | Count |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 1 |