Calvin

boyLatinChristian

Calvin is a Christian boy name of Latin, via French origin, meaning “Little bald one”.

MeaningLittle bald one
GenderBoy
OriginLatin, via French
PronunciationKAL-vin
TraditionChristian, Modern & Classic
Used inUnited States, Netherlands, United Kingdom

Meaning and origin of Calvin

Calvin comes from the French surname Cauvin, from Latin calvus, 'bald'. It was the surname of the Protestant reformer John Calvin, and his followers began using it as a first name in his honour. In the United States it gained further fame through President Calvin Coolidge and later the comic strip Calvin and Hobbes and designer Calvin Klein.

Is Calvin a Christian name?

Calvin is closely associated with the Reformed Protestant tradition founded by John Calvin, though today it is widely used as a secular name.

How popular is Calvin?

A steady classic in the United States.

Gifts with the name Calvin

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Spellings and variants of Calvin

CalvinoCalKalvin

Names similar to Calvin

More Christian boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Calvin mean?

Calvin means 'Little bald one'. It is of Latin, via French origin.

Is Calvin a Christian name?

Calvin is closely associated with the Reformed Protestant tradition founded by John Calvin, though today it is widely used as a secular name.

How do you pronounce Calvin?

Calvin is pronounced KAL-vin.

Is Calvin a boy or girl name?

Calvin is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.