Boy · 28th of 7,545
Carl
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
507,825
Total Births
145
Years of Data
1956
Peak Popularity Year
8,346
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Carl stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
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Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
The name Carl originates from the Germanic word for 'man' or 'freeman'. It has evolved through various forms, including Karl and Charles, and has been historically used since the Middle Ages, particularly due to the influence of Charlemagne. It carries connotations of strength and reliability, with notable bearers contributing to its positive image.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/kɑːrl/
Origin
Germanic
Etymology
The name Carl is derived from the Germanic word 'karal', meaning 'man' or 'freeman'. It has been used in various forms throughout history.
Meaning
man, freeman
Language Evolution
Karl (Old High German), Carlus (Latin), Charles (French), Karol (Slavic)
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity in the Middle Ages, particularly due to the influence of Charlemagne (Charles the Great), who was a significant historical figure.
Variants & Derivatives
Charles, Karol, Carlo, Carlos
Modern Popularity & Image
Carl is perceived as a classic and strong name, often associated with intelligence and reliability. Its popularity has varied over the years but remains a well-recognized name.
Famous People
Carl Jung, Carl Sagan, Carl Friedrich Gauss
Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Declining
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Explore popularity by location
Geographic charts live in focused views so this report stays readable. Choose the level of detail you need.
Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 8,346 peak births in 1956
Geographic Spread
Popular across 51 US states, with strongest presence in West Virginia
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 12 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 5 names that share a similar pronunciation but use different spellings.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 12 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Boy | 28th of 7545 | 113,313 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Boy | 31st of 6773 | 122,389 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Boy | 48th of 7552 | 145,405 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 76th of 10718 | 59,387 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 145th of 16616 | 33,996 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 384th of 24088 | 11,795 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 738th of 23106 | 4,060 |
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Girl | 1131st of 9107 | 773 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Girl | 1195th of 9204 | 712 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 1847th of 12526 | 639 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 2154th of 19264 | 620 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 4606th of 27321 | 311 |