Carol
Carol has dual origins. As a feminine name, it is short for Caroline, the French feminine of Charles (from the Germanic "karl" meaning free man). As an English word, "carol" means a song — particularly a Christmas carol, from the Old French "carole" (a circle dance). The two meanings coexist in the same name. Carol was one of the dominant American names of the 1930s-40s. It was the #4 girl name in 1941. Carol Burnett (born 1933), the comedian and actress, hosted "The Carol Burnett Show" for 11 years and is one of the most beloved entertainers in American history. Carol King (born 1942) is one of the most successful songwriters of all time; her album "Tapestry" (1971) is one of the best-selling records ever. Carol declined sharply after 1970 — partly because it had been so popular that it became generational. Patricia Highsmith's novel "Carol" (1952, originally "The Price of Salt") and its 2015 film adaptation gave the name a literary-romantic charge. But the name has been outside the US top 1000 since 2003 and is unlikely to return soon. Carol is a female name of Germanic origin that means "Free woman (from Charles) / Song (English)". Mid-century, capable, and warm. The name sounds friendly. Carols tend to be direct. US #4 in 1941. Outside top 1000 since 2003. Well-known people named Carol include Carol Burnett (comedian), Carole King (singer), Carol (Highsmith novel), Carol Channing (actress). Common variations and related forms of Carol include Carole (variant), Caroline (full form), Carroll (surname form), Karol (Polish, male).