Karol Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

About Karol

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.

Karol for girls#3426 US

Karol is a feminine name in many English-speaking countries, though it functions as a masculine name in Slavic countries, particularly Poland, where it's the equivalent of Charles. Derived from the Germanic name Karl meaning 'free man,' this cross-cultural name offers versatility and international appeal. The feminine use of Karol emerged as a variation of Carol, which itself began as a masculine name before shifting predominantly to feminine usage in the mid-20th century. While never reaching tremendous popularity peaks in the US, Karol has maintained steady recognition. Its streamlined spelling gives it a modern edge compared to the more traditional Carol, while retaining the same pleasant sound.

Pronounced KAR-ol.

As of October 2026, Karol ranked #11523 in US births in 2023 SSA, peaked at #1206 in 2005.

Popularity & trends

US popularity — history

US rank, lower is more popular · SSA data 2014–2025

Boys #3,846

Girls #3,426

20142025

18802025

Data table

Year	US rank · boys	Births · boys	US rank · girls	Births · girls
2014	#3,846	27	#2,381	77
2015	—	0	#2,700	66
2016	—	0	#3,620	43
2017	—	0	#4,108	36
2018	—	0	#3,533	44
2019	—	0	#2,469	72
2020	—	0	#2,945	55
2021	—	0	#3,137	52
2022	—	0	#2,874	59
2023	—	0	#2,797	61
2024	—	0	#3,775	40
2025	—	0	#3,426	45