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Karl

Karl is a boy name of Germanic origin, meaning Free man" - the name of Charlemagne.

  • GenderBoy
  • OriginGermanic
  • StyleClassic
  • Syllables1
  • US rank#1,364

What does Karl mean?

Free man" - the name of Charlemagne

How popular is Karl?

Popularity in the United States

Karl has been given to 101,191 babies in the United States since 1880, peaking in the 1960s. Its use has declined since that peak.

About 1 in 16,176 babies born in the United States were given this name in the most recent year on record.

01,3062,611188019502020
Babies named Karl per year in the United States, 1880–2020. Source: Social Security Administration

Popularity in France

Karl has been given to 10,463 babies in France since 1900, peaking in the 1970s. It has held a steady level of use since.

0166331190019612022
Babies named Karl per year in France, 1900–2022. Source: INSEE
101,191 Babies named since 1880
1960s Peak decade
Falling Recent trend

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Frequently asked questions about Karl

What does the name Karl mean?

Karl means Free man" - the name of Charlemagne. It is of Germanic origin.

Is Karl a boy's or a girl's name?

Karl is most often given to boys.

How popular is the name Karl?

Karl has been given to 101,191 babies in the United States since 1880, peaking in the 1960s. Its use has declined since that peak.