US Popularity Rank: 87

Origin: Hebrew

Meaning: wholehearted; dog-like

Caleb is a boy's name of Hebrew origin imbued with qualities of loyalty and devotion. Most intriguing is Caleb's long-thought ties to the Hebrew kelev, which means "dog-like." Yet far from critical, the name celebrates the faithful human companion's most beloved qualities. Forged from the Hebrew elements kal, meaning "whole," and lev, meaning "heart," Caleb is often translated as "wholehearted," continuing the theme of unwavering adoration. This holds firm with Caleb's namesake in the Old Testament, a follower of Moses who was rewarded for his faithfulness and one of few to visit the Promised Land.