📅 Since 1880🏆 41 years in top 1000.25% of births at peak
How to pronounce Caroline
KER·ul·eyen
/ˈkɛr.əl.ˌaɪn/ · stress on KER · 3 syllables
“free man”
France origin · Girl name
What does Caroline mean and where does it come from?
Caroline is derived from the male name Charles, with its roots in the Germanic name Karl. It became popular in the 18th century and has been widely used in various forms across Europe. The name gained prominence from queens and princesses, such as Caroline of Ansbach and Caroline of Brunswick. It ha
Cultural significance
Caroline has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of free man.
Declining — down 6 spots — currently #83 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#83 · Top 0.06%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#83
2,868
▼ down 6 · -5% births
2022
#77
3,029
▲ up 3 · -5% births
2021
#80
3,202
▼ down 9 · -4% births
2020
#71
3,345
▼ down 9 · -23% births
2015
#62
4,329
▲ up 26 · +29% births
2010
#88
3,358
▼ down 5 · -15% births
2005
#83
3,973
▼ down 18 · -21% births
2000
#65
5,021
▲ up 27 · +32% births
1995
#92
3,800
▲ up 24 · +35% births
1990
#116
2,820
▲ up 48 · +61% births
1985
#164
1,751
▲ up 36 · +33% births
1980
#200
1,313
▼ down 2 · +7% births
1975
#198
1,232
▲ up 31 · -10% births
1970
#229
1,372
▼ down 42 · -24% births
1965
#187
1,815
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Caroline
2015Rank #62
5,021
#152
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Caroline
Caroline has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #55 in 2017. More than 236,116 babies have been named Caroline since 1880. Caroline is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Caroline means "free man" — a name rooted in France tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Caroline?
Caroline is currently ranked #83 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Caroline?
Caroline originates from France tradition. France names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Caroline?
Caroline is a three-syllable name pronounced K EH1 R AH0 L AY2 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Caroline?
Caroline pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar France heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Caroline
For a sister
Caroline & Sophie♡
Caroline & Natalie♡
Caroline & Eloise♡
Caroline & Madeline♡
For a brother
Caroline & Aubrey♡
Caroline & Remi♡
Caroline & Isabelle♡
Caroline & Juliette♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#83
🇬🇧 UK
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🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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