WeeNames Scotland’s favourite name finder

← All names

Callen

Boy name · 192 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Callen: 192 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 22 births in 2018.

Callen is a modern variation of the traditional Irish and Scottish name Callan, which is thought to derive from the Gaelic word *caol*, meaning “slender” or “narrow,” though some sources also link it to *cath*, meaning “battle.” Unlike its close relative Callan, Callen hasn’t been widely borne by famous historical figures, but it has quietly gained appeal as a fresh, strong-sounding choice in Scotland and beyond. Its root can be glimpsed in Scottish place names like Caol and Callander, though no specific location is named after a bearer. A notable point: Callen is sometimes used as a surname too, and it offers a slightly softer yet equally sturdy alternative to popular names like Calvin or Colin.

Boy 18 of 52 years

Peak year
201822 babies
Latest (2025)
#4956 babies
Total births
192since 2001
5-year trend
▼ 31%vs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2018 · 22
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).