Meaning, origin, history
Malcolm is a name of Scottish origin that has been used by both men and women throughout history. The name comes from the Scottish Gaelic name "Máel Colm," which means "devotee of Saint Columba." Saint Columba was an Irish missionary who founded the monastery on Iona in the 6th century, and he is considered one of Scotland's patron saints.
The name Malcolm has a long history in Scottish royalty. One of the most famous bearers of the name was King Malcolm III of Scotland, also known as Malcolm Canmore, who ruled from 1058 to 1093. He was renowned for his military prowess and is often depicted as a strong and brave leader.
In literature, the name Malcolm has been used by several notable authors. In Shakespeare's "Macbeth," one of the characters is named Malcolm, who later becomes King Duncan's son-in-law and successor to the throne. Additionally, the American author and poet James Malcolm Rymer was known for his dime novels featuring the character Frank Reade Jr., a young inventor.
Today, Malcolm continues to be used as both a male and female name in English-speaking countries around the world. Its popularity has waxed and waned over time but remains a classic choice with a strong historical legacy behind it.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Malcomb since 1880
Total births
105
Total since 1880
Peak year
1965
13 births
in 1998
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years