Karl
Karl is the German form of Charles, derived from the Old High German word 'karal' meaning 'free man' or 'strong man.' It has deep roots in European royalty and Germanic tradition, conveying strength and nobility.
Current Popularity
#1593 for boys
in the United States (2025)
Popularity over time
Good to Know
- •Simple spelling with just four letters makes it easy to write
- •Distinguished Germanic heritage with strong European presence
- •The 'K' spelling feels more Continental than the 'C' variant Carl
- •Strong historical significance through Charlemagne (Karl der Große in German)
- •Multiple spelling variations exist
Similar Names
Famous People
Karl Marx
Philosopher and economist
Karl Lagerfeld
Fashion designer
Karl Malone
NBA Hall of Fame basketball player
Karl Urban
Actor
Statistics
100,836
Total births since 1880
1960
Peak year
Discovery
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