Caroline, derived from the Latin word "carulus", meaning "strong" or "vigorous", is a feminine given name of French origin. It was popularized during the Middle Ages by queens and princesses named Caroline who were part of European royal families. The name gained further popularity in England following the marriage of King George II's daughter, Princess Caroline of Brandenburg-Ansbach, to King Frederick V of Denmark-Norway in 1729. Throughout history, there have been several notable figures bearing this name, including Empress Maria Caroline of Austria (also known as Marie Antoinette) and Queen Caroline of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel, the estranged wife of King George IV of the United Kingdom.
The name Caroline has been used consistently throughout the centuries, with its popularity fluctuating over time. In England and Wales, it was particularly popular in the late 19th to early 20th century, ranking among the top 50 names during that period. Today, Caroline remains a classic and elegant choice for parents seeking a traditional yet timeless name for their daughters.
The name Caroline has also inspired various derivatives and related names, such as Carlotta, Carolanne, Carolyne, Carla, Carolina, and Carrie, offering parents additional options if they are drawn to the name's meaning but prefer a slightly different form. Some popular surname variations include Carlton, Carlos, Carlsson, and Karloff.
In literature and arts, Caroline has been used as a character name by notable authors like Charlotte Brontë ("Jane Eyre"), F. Scott Fitzgerald ("The Great Gatsby"), and Gabriel García Márquez ("One Hundred Years of Solitude"). Famous individuals named Caroline include American actresses Caroline Rhea and Caroline Dhavernas, Swedish tennis player Caroline Wozniacki, and British singer-songwriter Carol King.
Overall, the name Caroline carries a rich historical legacy while maintaining a modern appeal. Its meaning reflects strength and vigor, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for a meaningful yet elegant name for their daughters.
The name Caroline experienced fluctuations in popularity throughout the years, with a significant increase starting from the late 1970s up until the early 1990s, reaching its peak in 1989 with 30 births. Since then, it has maintained a steady level of popularity, with an average of around 6-7 births per year.