Caleb

Probably connected with the Hebrew word for “dog”; the exact derivation is uncertain.

Caleb is a masculine biblical name of Hebrew origin. Its meaning is often connected with the Hebrew word kelev, “dog”, though the precise formation of the name is uncertain. The familiar English spelling represents the Hebrew name כָּלֵב. In the Book of Numbers, Caleb is portrayed as following God wholeheartedly. That story gives the name an association with faithfulness, which is distinct from a settled literal translation. Someone choosing Caleb for this biblical connection may value the story as much as the proposed word meaning. The English pronunciation begins with a clear k sound, moves through a flowing l and closes with b. This gives Caleb a compact, well-defined feel without making it sound clipped. It may appeal if you enjoy a name with a steady rhythm and a substantial narrative behind it.

Etymology: English form of the Hebrew biblical name כָּלֵב, commonly linked to kelev, “dog”.