Caroline

Caroline is a French and Latin feminine form of Carolus, the Latinized version of the Germanic name Karl, itself derived from a root meaning man or free man. The name gained widespread use across Europe in the 18th century, partly through the influence of Caroline of Ansbach, queen consort of Great Britain and wife of George II. It became a staple of English, German, and Scandinavian naming traditions and remains popular across many countries today. Related forms include Carolina, Carola, Karolina, and the masculine Charles and Karl.