Kalle

German variation of Charles

"free man"

Kalle Origin and Meaning

The name Kalle is a boy's name of Finnish, Swedish origin.

Kalle is a masculine name with Scandinavian origins, particularly popular in Finland and Sweden. It originated as a diminutive form of Karl (or Carl), which derives from the Old Germanic word meaning 'free man' or 'man'. In Nordic countries, Kalle has long been used as an independent given name rather than just a nickname. The name combines historical depth with a friendly, approachable quality. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, its straightforward pronunciation (KAL-eh) and spelling make it accessible. In Sweden, the name has periodically ranked among the top 100 boys' names, appreciated for its traditional Nordic character balanced with a casual, youthful appeal.

Popularity of the name Kalle

• 280 Germany 2016
• 39 Denmark 2023
• 79 Estonia 2024

Famous People Named Kalle

• Kalle Virtanen birth name of Kaarle Viikate, lead singer of Finnish metal band Viikate (Scythe)
• Kalle Markus Palander Finnish alpine skier
• Kalle Anttila Finnish Olympic wrestler
• Kalle Moraeus Swedish musician of Orsa Spelmän and Benny Anderssons Orkester
• Kalle "Cane" Savijärvi guitarist for Finnish folk,metal band Korpiklaani
• Kalle Kiiskinen Finnish Olympic curler
• Kalle Lasn Estonian,Canadian film director and writer
• Karl Axel "Kalle" Sundqvist, Swedish Olympic sprint canoer
• Kalle Katajisto Finnish motorcycle racer

The name Kalle in Pop Culture

• Kalle Blomkvist a character created by Astrid Lindgren
• Kalle Anka the Swedish name for Donald Duck
• Kleiner König Kalle Wirsch German children's book character