Log in · Sign up

Carolina Girl

Popularity: #383 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationkah-roh-LEE-nah / kəˈroʊlɪnə

Latin; Spanish; Italian

Meaning

Latin: free woman; Spanish: song of happiness; Italian: strong

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Carolina has its roots in the Latin name Carolus, which is derived from the Germanic name Karl, meaning "free man." The evolution of the name can be traced from Latin to various languages, including Italian and Spanish, where it became Carolina. The name was introduced into English through the influence of European languages, particularly during the Renaissance period when classical names gained popularity. The Latin form Carolus was also associated with several historical figures, including Charlemagne, who was known as Carolus Magnus, or Charles the Great, in the 8th and 9th centuries, further embedding the name within European history.

Throughout history, the name Carolina has been borne by various notable figures, including queens and saints. One significant milestone is the use of the name in the context of the Carolingian dynasty, which played a crucial role in shaping medieval Europe. The name Carolina also appears in the context of the Southern United States, particularly in the naming of the Carolinas, which were named in honor of King Charles I of England in the 17th century. This connection to royalty and nobility has contributed to the name's enduring appeal.

Culturally, Carolina carries connotations of strength and freedom, resonating with its etymological roots. The name has been embraced in various cultures, often associated with grace and elegance. Additionally, diminutive forms such as Caro or Lina have emerged in different languages, reflecting the name's adaptability and affection in familial contexts. Overall, Carolina's historical significance and cultural resonance have ensured its lasting presence in various societies.

Trend Summary

Carolina has seen a steady rise in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Carole
  • Carolinae
  • Caroleena

International Variants

  • Carolina (Spanish)
  • Carolina (Italian)
  • Karolina (Polish)
  • Karolína (Czech)

Famous people named Carolina

Carolina Herrera is a fashion designer best known for her eponymous brand, bridal collections, and red carpet designs.

Carolina Wozniacki is a professional tennis player best known for winning the Australian Open and being ranked world No. 1.

Carolina Klüft is a retired athlete best known for her achievements in heptathlon and long jump, including multiple World Championships.

Carolina Marin is a professional badminton player best known for winning the Olympic gold medal and multiple World Championships.

Fictional characters named Carolina

Carolina is a fictional character from the comic book series Carolina. She is a member of the superhero team known as the Young Avengers, known for her ability to fly and manipulate light.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Carolina was first seen in the United States in 1880. Carolina has ranked as high as #490 nationally, which occurred in 2004, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Carolina has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Carolina (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 194
28%
CA 119
17%
FL 67
10%
GA 28
4%
NC 28
4%
IL 22
3%
AZ 20
3%
NY 15
2%
VA 15
2%
AL 14
2%
KY 14
2%
SC 13
2%
TN 12
2%
IN 11
2%
CO 10
1%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188013
188110
188210
188320
188413
188518
188625
188719
188824
188927
189023
189121
189228
189324
189434
189535
189628
189717
189824
189915
190040
190137
190231
190332
190444
190530
190644
190733
190845
190939
191043
191156
191263
191358
191477
1915100
1916111
1917102
191898
1919109
1920132
1921137
1922118
1923128
1924144
1925145
1926120
1927125
1928145
1929153
1930132
1931110
1932112
1933117
1934104
193597
193694
1937107
1938101
193995
194078
194198
194281
1943131
1944124
1945114
1946119
1947128
1948114
1949115
1950104
1951113
1952108
1953126
1954109
1955103
1956107
1957127
1958105
1959101
1960143
1961167
1962171
1963173
1964227
1965194
1966193
1967161
1968185
1969173
1970213
1971189
1972166
1973227
1974199
1975247
1976248
1977269
1978399
1979437
1980455
1981435
1982398
1983422
1984377
1985404
1986466
1987481
1988524
1989794
1990910
1991860
1992917
1993949
19941,049
1995988
19961,054
19971,073
19981,011
19991,036
20001,204
20011,207
20021,074
20031,216
20041,270
20051,133
20061,196
20071,020
2008925
2009828
2010822
2011729
2012723
2013712
2014787
2015732
2016775
2017722
2018740
2019756
2020684
2021608
2022664
2023728
2024716