Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Carl

      Origin 
      German

      Meaning 
      Manly

      Variations 
      Carla, Carli, Carlo

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Carl has its origins in the German language and is derived from the Old High German word karl, meaning manly. This name has a notable historical significance, as it can be traced back to the early Middle Ages when it was a popular choice among the Germanic tribes. In medieval times, the name Carl was associated with the qualities of strength, bravery, and nobility.

      Throughout history, many notable individuals have borne the name Carl, further cementing its prominence. One prominent figure is Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great, who ruled the Frankish Empire in the 8th and 9th centuries. Charlemagne's role in shaping Europe during this time period has left an indelible mark on history. Additionally, various European monarchs and nobles over the centuries have been named Carl, emphasizing the name's connection to nobility and power.

      In modern times, the name Carl continues to be widely used, although its popularity has somewhat diminished. It can still be found across different cultures and countries, adorned by men of various professions and backgrounds. The name Carl often conveys a sense of masculinity and strength, reflecting its etymological roots. Despite its decline in popularity, the name Carl carries a rich historical legacy that continues to leave an impression in both personal and cultural contexts.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Carl.
      Andersson

      is the most common surname for Carl.

      Anna

      is the most common spouse name for Carl.

      Carl

      is the most common child name for Carl.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1860 is when there were the most people born with the first name Carl.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.