Kelman is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic surname "Cailbhean," which is believed to mean "she who has fair hair." The name is thought to have originated as a nickname for someone with light-colored hair, possibly as a derivative of the Old Norse word "kelda," meaning "spring" or "well."
The name Kelman first appeared in Scotland during the Middle Ages and was likely brought there by Viking invaders who settled in the region. Over time, the name became established as a Scottish surname and has since been adopted as a given name for both boys and girls.
Despite its Scottish origins, Kelman is not a particularly common name in Scotland or anywhere else in the world. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, there were only 13 babies named Kelman in the U.S. between 2000 and 2019, making it quite rare.
Kelman is often associated with several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous Kelmans was Sir John Kelman, a Scottish merchant and financier who played a significant role in the establishment of the Bank of Scotland in 1695. Another notable figure was James Kelman, a Scottish novelist and short story writer who won the Booker Prize in 1994 for his novel "How Late It Was, How Late."
In literature, Kelman has also appeared as a character name in several works, such as the novel "Kelman" by Scottish author Neil Forsyth. The name's unique sound and its association with notable figures may contribute to its appeal as a distinctive given name.
Overall, Kelman is a rare and distinctive given name of Scottish origin that carries a unique meaning and history. Its association with notable figures throughout history adds to its intrigue and allure as a name choice for parents looking for something unique for their child.
Kelman is a rare and unique name, with only five babies being born with this name in the United States each year, according to data from the Social Security Administration. In fact, out of all the names recorded over time, Kelman ranks among the least popular, making it quite distinctive. Despite its rarity, Kelman has seen some fluctuations in its popularity throughout recent years. For instance, in 2008, there were five births with this name across the country.