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Carol

Girl name · 2,645 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Carol: 2,645 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 319 births in 1974.

Of Latin origin, Carol arrived in Scotland as the feminine form of Carolus, the Latin version of Charles, ultimately derived from the Germanic *karlaz* meaning “free man.” The name gained widespread popularity through the Christmas carol tradition, as “carol” itself became associated with festive songs of joy. Famous bearers include singer Carol King, whose album *Tapestry* became one of the best-selling records of all time, and author Carol Ann Duffy, the first woman to serve as Britain’s Poet Laureate. The name also shares its root with the masculine Charles, which gave rise to the city of Charleston in South Carolina. In Scotland, Carol enjoyed particular popularity from the 1950s through the 1970s, often chosen for its cheerful sound and international appeal.