Karlo is a charming and distinctive given name of Slavic origin. It is derived from the Old Slavic word "kralj", which means "king". The name has been popular in various Slavic countries for centuries, particularly in Croatia where it is commonly used.
The name Karlo was first brought to prominence by the early medieval rulers of the Croat kingdom known as the Trpimirović dynasty. The most notable of these rulers was King Tomislav, who reigned from 910 to 928 and is considered the first historical king of Croatia. His son, King Michael Krešimir II (also known as Karlo), ruled from around 949 until his death in battle against the Hungarians in 969.
The name Karlo has since been passed down through generations of Croat nobility and has become synonymous with Croatian royal history. Today, it is still a popular choice among parents looking for a strong and distinctive name for their sons.
In addition to its Slavic origins, the name Karlo also shares similarities with other royal names from different linguistic backgrounds, such as Charles in English and Carlos in Spanish. This further underscores the regal connotations associated with this captivating name. Overall, Karlo is a fitting choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child that pays homage to its rich historical roots.
The name Karlo experienced fluctuations in popularity over the decades, with a notable increase since the late 1990s. Between 1959 and 1986, there were fewer than 15 births each year. However, starting from 1987, the number of annual births increased significantly, peaking at 34 in 2023. Overall, there have been a total of 997 births named Karlo from 1959 to 2023.