Meaning, origin, history
Calder is a unique and distinctive name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Old Norse word "kálfr," which means "calf" or "young bull." The name was brought to Scotland by Viking settlers who invaded and settled in the region during the late eighth and ninth centuries.
The name Calder has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous bearers of the name is Alexander Calder, an American sculptor and painter known for his innovative mobiles. Born in 1898, Calder was a pioneer of modern art, creating sculptures that incorporated motion and balance to produce kinetic effects.
Another prominent figure with the name Calder is Thomas Calder, a Scottish politician who served as Member of Parliament for the Stirling Burghs constituency from 1703 until his death in 1726. Calder was known for his support of the Scottish Enlightenment and his contributions to the development of the Scottish economy during his time.
The name Calder has also been used as a surname, with several notable families bearing the name throughout history. The Calder family of Kirkcaldy, Scotland, were a prominent clan in the region, with members serving as lairds of the estate known as Calder House.
Today, Calder continues to be a unique and distinctive name, often chosen by parents who wish to give their children a name with a strong historical heritage and a connection to the Scottish Highlands. The name has also gained popularity in recent years due to its association with Alexander Calder's groundbreaking work in modern art.
In summary, the name Calder is of Scottish origin, derived from the Old Norse word "kálfr." Throughout history, the name has been associated with prominent figures such as Alexander Calder and Thomas Calder. Today, Calder remains a distinctive and unique name choice for parents looking to honor their Scottish heritage or celebrate modern art.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Calder since 1880
Total births
1,991
Total since 1880
Peak year
2016
120 births
in 2023
111
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+18%
↗
vs previous 5 years