Carl - name meaning and origin

The boy's name Carl \c(a)-rl\ is pronounced karl. It is of Old German origin. From Karl, the German form of Charles (Old German) "free man". See also Carlos. Poet Carl Sandburg; journalist Carl Bernstein; astronomer/author Carl Sagan; psychologist Carl Jung.

Carl has 3 variant forms: Carel, Karel and Karl.

For more information, see also the related name Carlyle.

Baby names that sound like Carl are Carly, Carlo and Caryl.

Carl is a very popular male first name and a very popular surname (source: 1990 U.S. Census). Displayed below is the baby name popularity trend for the boy's name Carl. Compare Carl with related baby names.