Karolyn
Girl name · 10 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Karolyn: 10 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 4 births in 1981.
Karolyn is a modern English variant of Caroline, which itself derives from the masculine Charles, ultimately from the Germanic element *karlaz* meaning "free man." This feminine form thus carries the sense of "free woman" or "strong woman." Notable bearers are relatively few, but the name gained visibility through Karolyn Grimes, the American actress who played Zuzu in the classic film *It's a Wonderful Life*. There are no major places named after a Karolyn, but the root Charles has given its name to countless locations worldwide, from Charleston to the Carolinas. The spelling with a "K" and "y" gives Karolyn a distinctly mid-20th-century American feel, making it a stylish, slightly retro choice that still feels fresh. It remains an uncommon but recognized variant in Scotland.
Girl 3 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 19814 babies
- Latest (1983)
- #5123 babies
- Total births
- 10since 1975
- 5-year trend
- ≈ stablevs prior 5y