The Cales Family History

What Does the Cales Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname in question has Italian and Irish roots, with its origins traceable to the Greek term Cali, which translates to beautiful. In subsequent history, the name evolved into Cales in France, deriving from the Latin word for rock. A significant number of individuals bearing the surname Cales are found predominantly in the southern regions of Italy. The Irish variant of the name, spelled as Mac Cathail, has its origins in Gaelic and signifies powerful in battle. Alternative spellings of the surname include Calo, Cale, Calio, and Cali. In the United States, the earliest recorded arrivals were Aioles and Alice Cales in 1683, who settled in what is now known as Pennsylvania. Throughout the 20th century, the majority of individuals with this surname have resided in the northeastern and midwestern parts of the country. Noteworthy individuals bearing this surname include John Davies Cale, a Welsh musician and songwriter.