Kalen
11% girls · 89% boys
About Kalen
Kalen is a versatile feminine name with multiple cultural origins. It can be a variation of Kalin (Slavic, meaning "pure") or derived from the Greek name Kalene, meaning "beautiful." Some also consider it a feminine form of Kale, which has Irish roots meaning "slender." The name's popularity for girls rose gradually through the 1980s and 1990s, though it has remained relatively uncommon. Kalen has a contemporary sound while maintaining a connection to traditional naming roots. It appeals to parents seeking a name that balances strength and femininity. The name's short, crisp sound and simple spelling make it accessible while still being distinctive. Kalen is sometimes used as a unisex name, though this entry focuses on its feminine usage.
Kalen for boys#2086 US
One of the new K boys' names that emerged in the nineties, it's now slipping off the radar.
Pronounced KAY-len.
As of November 2026, Kalen ranked #10487 for girls and #2086 for boys in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #2134 for girls in 1994 and #859 for boys in 1998.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank · girls | Births · girls | US rank · boys | Births · boys |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | — | 0 | #1,875 | 78 |
| 2015 | — | 0 | #2,123 | 66 |
| 2016 | — | 0 | #2,122 | 66 |
| 2017 | — | 0 | #2,470 | 52 |
| 2018 | — | 0 | #2,110 | 67 |
| 2019 | — | 0 | #1,878 | 80 |
| 2020 | — | 0 | #2,153 | 65 |
| 2021 | — | 0 | #1,659 | 100 |
| 2022 | — | 0 | #1,912 | 82 |
| 2023 | — | 0 | #2,424 | 56 |
| 2024 | — | 0 | #2,044 | 74 |
| 2025 | — | 0 | #2,086 | 71 |
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