Carole
English, feminine variation of Charles
"free man"
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Carole Origin and Meaning
The name Carole is a girl's name.
Carole is a feminine name of French origin, derived from the masculine name Charles, ultimately from Germanic roots meaning 'free man' or 'strong.' Popularized in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century, Carole reached its peak popularity in the 1940s and 1950s, boosted by celebrities like Carole Lombard. The spelling with an 'e' ending gives it a distinctly French flair compared to the variant Carol. Though less common for newborns today, Carole retains a classic, elegant image. The name carries musical associations through the tradition of Christmas carols and gained recognition through famous bearers like singer-songwriter Carole King. Its timeless quality balances tradition with a warm, approachable character.
- Carole Rank in US Top 1000
- Famous People Named Carole
- The name Carole in Pop Culture
- The name Carole in Nameberry Blog Posts
# 931 in the US
Carole Rank in US Top 1000
Famous People Named Carole
- Carole King (born Carol Joan Klein)American singer,songwriter
- Carole Lombard (born Jane Alice Peters)American actress
- Carole DiFalco RadziwillAmerican realty TV personality ("Real Housewives of New York")
- Carole Landis (born Frances Lillian Mary Ridste)American actress
- Carole Elizabeth Middletonmother of Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge
- Carole MathewsAmerican actress
- Carole BouquetFrench actress
- Carole Bayer SagerAmerican songwriter
- Carole Denise FredericksAmerican R&B singer
- Mildred Frances "Carole" CookAmerican actress
- Carole ShelleyEnglish actress
- Carole "Cookie" ColeAmerican actress; adopted daughter of singer Nat King Cole
- Carole Baskinowner of Big Cat Rescue, a wild cat sanctuary
The name Carole in Pop Culture
- Carole Hansoncharacter in "The Saddle Club" TV and book series