Karel Unisex

Popularity: #916 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationKAH-rel / ˈkɑːr.ɛl

Czech; Dutch; Slavic

Meaning

Czech: man; Dutch: free man

Historical & Cultural Background

Karel is a name commonly found in Czech and Dutch cultures. In Czech, it is often associated with historical figures and has been used since the Middle Ages. The name is derived from the Slavic root meaning 'man' or 'free man'. It has variations in different languages, reflecting its widespread use across Europe.

Trend Summary

The name Karel has seen fluctuating popularity in various regions, with a notable presence in Czech-speaking countries.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Karell
  • Karol

International Variants

  • Carlo (Italian)
  • Charles (English)
  • Karl (German)
  • Károly (Hungarian)

Famous people named Karel

Karel Čapek was a Czech writer known for his works in science fiction and for coining the term 'robot'.

Karel Gott was a celebrated Czech pop singer, often referred to as the 'Golden Voice of Prague'.

Karel Ančerl was a prominent Czech conductor recognized for his contributions to classical music.

Karel Havlíček Borovský was a Czech journalist and politician, known for his influence in Czech literature and politics.

Fictional characters named Karel

Karel is a character in the video game 'The Witcher', known for his role in the storyline.

Karel is a character in the novel 'The Good Soldier Švejk' by Jaroslav Hašek, representing the absurdity of war.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Karel was first seen in the United States in 1916. Karel has ranked as high as #1354 nationally, which occurred in 2023, and has been most popular in Florida, California, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Karel has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Karel (2023)

StateBirthsShare
CA 7
54%
TX 6
46%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19168
19176
19209
19306
19349
19355
19366
19397
19405
19428
19436
19476
19485
19499
19505
19518
19526
19546
19557
19577
19586
19596
19615
19627
19635
19647
19666
19698
19705
19716
19728
19745
19768
19777
19786
19798
19806
19817
19827
19837
19846
198513
19867
19878
198812
19896
19907
19918
19926
19939
19945
19956
19966
19979
19988
199910
20005
20018
20038
200416
200515
200612
20089
200917
20109
201210
20137
20145
20157
20168
20175
20185
201911
20205
20216
202213
202322
20248