Cole - Name Meaning and Origin

The boy's name Cole \c(o)-le\ is pronounced kohl. It is of Middle English and Old French origin, and its meaning is "swarthy, coal-black, charcoal". Surname derived from a medieval given name. Also used as a short form of Nicholas and names beginning with Cole-. As a given name, it is linked with the songwriter-composer Cole Porter (20th century). Outlaw Cole Younger.

Cole has 2 variant forms: Coley and Colson.

For more information, see also related names Colbert and Colin.

Baby names that sound like Cole are Cale, Colle, Col, Coll and Coyle.

Cole is a common 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 Cole. Click here to compare Cole with related baby names.