Carolyne is a unique and elegant feminine given name of French origin. It is derived from the French word 'carole', which means 'round dance' or 'ring dance'. The name Carolyne was popularized during the Victorian era in England, when it was often used as a diminutive form of Caroline. However, unlike its counterpart Caroline, which has become quite common over time, Carolyne remains relatively rare and distinctive. It is often associated with refined elegance and sophistication due to its French origins and unique sound. Despite its rarity, Carolyne has been carried by notable historical figures such as Carolyne von Goethe (1805-1894), the wife of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's grandson, and more recently, Carolyne Roehm (b. 1952), an American fashion designer and former First Lady of Arkansas. Overall, Carolyne is a beautiful and distinctive name with a rich history that continues to captivate those who appreciate its unique charm.
The name Carolyne experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over time. With a total of 3572 births recorded between 1882 and 2023, its peak popularity occurred during the early 1940s, with 108 births in 1942 alone. However, it's notable that after the late 1960s, the name's usage declined considerably, with fewer than 50 births per year since then. As of 2023, Carolyne appears to have fallen out of favor, with only 13 recorded births.