Carline

Carline is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections. It primarily functions as a French diminutive of Caroline, ultimately derived from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man.' The name also has Scottish connections, where 'carline' historically referred to an old woman or witch in Scots dialect. In botanical contexts, carline refers to a type of thistle, adding nature associations. The name has never achieved widespread popularity but maintains a delicate, classic quality with its soft sounds. Carline offers an elegant alternative to the more common Caroline while preserving the same sophisticated roots and melodic quality.

As of October 2026, Carline ranked #12817 in US births in 2008 SSA, peaked at #1476 in 1941.