Karol

German variation of Charles

"free man"

Karol Origin and Meaning

The name Karol is a boy's name of Polish, Czech origin.

Karol is traditionally a masculine name in many Slavic countries, though it can be used for both genders in different cultures. It's the Eastern European equivalent of Charles, derived from Germanic origins meaning 'free man' or 'manly.' In Poland, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, Karol is a common male name, while English speakers might perceive it as a feminine variant of Carol. The name gained international recognition when Karol Józef Wojtyła became Pope John Paul II. Karol has a strong, straightforward quality with its two distinct syllables and firm ending. Its cross-cultural versatility makes it appealing to parents with Slavic heritage or those seeking a name that works in multiple languages.

Popularity of the name Karol

• 990 England 2019
• 40 Poland 2024

Famous People Named Karol

• Karol Jozef "Lolek" Wojtyla birth name of Polish,born Pope St. John Paul II
• Karol Stanisław Radziwiłł aka Panie Kochanku Prince of Poland
• Karol Stanisław Radziwiłł Polish nobleman and diplomat
• Karol Hubert Rostworowski Polish poet and playwright
• Karol Beck Slovakian tennis player
• Karol Kučera Slovakian tennis player
• Karol Kazimierz Kurpiński Polish composer
• Karol Józef Lipiński Polish composer and violinist
• Karol Joseph "Bo" Bobko American astronaut
• Karol Libelt Polish philosopher
• Karol Otto Kniaziewicz Polish general