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Cole Boy

Popularity: #158 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationKOHL / /koʊl/

English; Latin

Meaning

English: swarthy; Latin: victory

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Cole has its roots in Old English, derived from the word "cola," which means "charcoal" or "swarthy." This term is believed to have originated from the Proto-Germanic *kula, which also relates to the Old Norse word "koli," meaning "coal." The name evolved through various forms, including the Old English "Cola," before being adopted into Middle English as "Cole." It was later incorporated into the modern English lexicon, where it has been used both as a surname and a given name.

Historically, the name Cole has been associated with several notable figures. In the medieval period, it was not uncommon for individuals to be named after their occupations or physical characteristics, which is likely how Cole became a common name. The name appears in various historical texts, and its use can be traced back to the 12th century in England. Additionally, the name has biblical connections, as it is sometimes linked to the Hebrew name "Kole," which means "whole" or "sound." This connection may have contributed to its acceptance in Christian communities, particularly during the Middle Ages when biblical names were favored.

Culturally, the name Cole has resonated through literature and folklore, often symbolizing strength and resilience, akin to the enduring nature of charcoal as a source of heat and energy. The name has been used in various literary works and has been associated with characters that embody these traits. Diminutive forms such as "Col" have emerged, but the name Cole itself has maintained its significance over the centuries. Its associations with warmth and strength have helped it endure as a recognizable name throughout history.

Trend Summary

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

Similar Names

Variants

  • Coal
  • Col

International Variants

  • Noé (French)
  • Nicolás (Spanish)

Famous people named Cole

Cole Sprouse is an actor best known for The Suite Life of Zack & Cody, Riverdale, and Five Feet Apart.

Cole Porter was a composer and songwriter best known for Anything Goes, Kiss Me, Kate, and Night and Day.

Cole Hauser is an actor best known for Good Will Hunting, 2 Fast 2 Furious, and Yellowstone.

Cole Beasley is a professional football player best known for his time with the Dallas Cowboys and Buffalo Bills.

Cole Anthony is a professional basketball player best known for playing with the Orlando Magic and North Carolina Tar Heels.

Fictional characters named Cole

Cole Turner is a fictional character from the TV series Charmed. He is a half-demon who becomes a significant love interest for one of the main characters, Phoebe Halliwell.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Cole was first seen in the United States in 1886. Cole has ranked as high as #115 nationally, which occurred in 2002, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York. In the past 5 years the name Cole has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Cole (2024)

StateBirthsShare
PA 187
9%
NY 156
8%
CA 141
7%
TX 127
6%
FL 106
5%
OH 93
5%
IL 87
4%
MA 86
4%
NC 75
4%
MI 74
4%
VA 57
3%
WI 57
3%
CT 56
3%
MO 51
2%
TN 44
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18866
18995
19006
19075
19095
19106
191110
191223
191319
191423
191526
191625
191719
191817
191922
192010
192119
192218
192321
192416
192518
192616
192710
192815
192913
193011
193116
193218
193310
193418
19359
193614
193712
193812
19397
194010
194122
194228
194322
194412
19458
194618
194734
194840
194930
195028
195150
195243
195340
195464
195562
195661
195773
195872
195969
196072
196198
196283
196363
196464
196568
196650
196753
196869
196983
197099
197199
1972139
1973159
1974181
1975158
1976144
1977157
1978149
1979158
1980272
1981299
1982806
19831,112
19841,163
19851,185
19861,070
19871,003
1988903
1989909
19901,099
19911,979
19922,312
19932,665
19943,301
19953,149
19963,737
19975,159
19985,148
19995,317
20005,926
20015,739
20026,038
20035,898
20045,648
20055,587
20065,639
20075,703
20085,389
20095,278
20104,590
20114,140
20123,779
20133,453
20143,426
20153,499
20163,603
20173,467
20183,347
20193,091
20202,768
20212,834
20222,625
20232,363
20242,219