Carol

Carol is an English name derived from the Old French and Medieval Latin form of the Germanic name Carolus, itself rooted in a Proto-Germanic element meaning man or free man. It gained widespread use as both a masculine and feminine name in the English-speaking world, though by the twentieth century it had become predominantly feminine, partly through association with the word carol meaning a joyful song. Notable bearers include Carol Lombard, the American actress, and the name was especially popular in the mid-twentieth century United States. Related forms include Caroline, Carolina, Carole, and the masculine Charles and Karl.