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Caroline Girl

Popularity: #92 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationKAR-uh-lin / /ˈkɛr.ə.laɪn/

French; Latin

Meaning

French: free man; Latin: strong

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Caroline has its roots in the Latin name "Carolus," which means "free man." This Latin form evolved into the Old French "Caroline," a feminine diminutive of "Charles." The transition into English occurred during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, when many Old French names were adopted into the English language. The name Caroline has been used in various forms across different cultures, including the Italian "Carolina" and the Spanish "Carolina," both of which maintain the original meaning associated with freedom.

Historically, the name gained prominence through notable figures, including Caroline of Ansbach, who was the queen consort of King George II of Great Britain in the 18th century. Her influence in the arts and politics during her reign contributed to the name's recognition in English-speaking countries. Additionally, the name appears in various literary works and royal lineages, further embedding it in cultural history. The name Caroline was also popularized by its use in the 19th century, particularly through the works of authors such as Jane Austen, who featured characters named Caroline in her novels.

Culturally, the name Caroline has been associated with grace and nobility, often linked to the ideals of femininity and strength. It has been used in various religious contexts, with saints named Caroline, although these figures are less prominent than those associated with the male form, Charles. The name has also inspired various diminutive forms, such as "Carrie" and "Carly," which have been used affectionately throughout history. Overall, Caroline's enduring presence in literature, royalty, and cultural symbolism underscores its significance across centuries.

Trend Summary

Caroline has remained a consistently popular name in the United States, often ranking within the top 100 names for girls.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Carole
  • Carol

International Variants

  • Carolina (Spanish)
  • Karolina (Polish)
  • Carole (French)
  • Karoline (German)

Famous people named Caroline

Caroline Kennedy is an author and attorney best known for being the daughter of President John F. Kennedy, her work as an ambassador, and her books on American history.

Caroline Wozniacki is a retired professional tennis player best known for winning the Australian Open, being ranked world No. 1, and her numerous WTA titles.

Caroline Flack was a television presenter best known for hosting Love Island, The X Factor, and her work on BBC Radio.

Caroline Aherne was a comedian and actress best known for The Royle Family, Mrs. Merton, and her work in television comedy.

Caroline Dhavernas is an actress best known for her roles in Hannibal, Wonderfalls, and The Pacific.

Fictional characters named Caroline

Caroline Hertig is a fictional character from the animated series Over the Garden Wall. She is a kind and nurturing figure who helps guide the main characters through their journey in the Unknown.

Caroline Forbes is a fictional character from the TV series The Vampire Diaries. She is a vampire and a close friend of the protagonist, often providing support and comic relief throughout the series.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Caroline was first seen in the United States in 1880. Caroline has ranked as high as #145 nationally, which occurred in 2000, and has been most popular in New York, California, Texas, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina. In the past 5 years the name Caroline has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Caroline (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 297
11%
NC 166
6%
GA 144
5%
FL 141
5%
CA 110
4%
TN 110
4%
VA 107
4%
OH 107
4%
AL 101
4%
PA 95
4%
IN 87
3%
NY 82
3%
IL 78
3%
KY 76
3%
LA 74
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
1880306
1881316
1882304
1883321
1884380
1885399
1886370
1887398
1888458
1889491
1890455
1891402
1892476
1893483
1894473
1895484
1896437
1897456
1898441
1899393
1900455
1901406
1902452
1903389
1904429
1905407
1906409
1907437
1908449
1909443
1910553
1911550
1912785
1913805
1914989
19151,402
19161,385
19171,368
19181,458
19191,296
19201,436
19211,425
19221,269
19231,304
19241,302
19251,193
19261,217
19271,167
19281,189
19291,192
19301,160
19311,125
19321,103
19331,050
19341,069
19351,048
19361,075
19371,094
19381,115
19391,005
19401,161
19411,173
19421,390
19431,353
19441,212
19451,015
19461,090
19471,150
19481,080
19491,001
1950879
1951919
1952916
1953885
1954771
1955742
1956702
19571,137
1958990
19591,044
19601,209
19612,199
19621,989
19631,690
19642,106
19651,815
19661,551
19671,450
19681,412
19691,352
19701,371
19711,215
19721,071
19731,112
19741,197
19751,231
19761,224
19771,204
19781,308
19791,354
19801,313
19811,391
19821,537
19831,484
19841,632
19851,751
19861,802
19872,047
19882,326
19892,661
19902,819
19912,843
19923,176
19933,083
19943,452
19953,799
19964,466
19974,439
19984,276
19994,474
20005,022
20014,864
20024,657
20034,585
20044,379
20053,973
20063,791
20073,408
20083,543
20093,624
20103,360
20113,370
20123,420
20133,983
20144,347
20154,333
20164,437
20174,294
20184,167
20193,919
20203,362
20213,202
20223,029
20232,868
20242,720