MallowbyNames

Carolyne

KAR-oh-line · Free woman; a feminine form of Charles.

2025 rank (girls)
#10,107
Babies named in 2025
9
Peak popularity
1942
2025 frequency
1 in 178,585 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Declining since 2000

Declining since 2000, #10,107 for girls today.

Popularity of Carolyne since 1882

Babies named Carolyne per year in U.S. Social Security records.

3672108192019602000Most births 1942Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1880s5
1890s15
1900s33
1910s174
1920s260
1930s378
1940s813
1950s400
1960s242
1970s164
1980s211
1990s279
2000s323
2010s230
2020s60

Meaning & origin

Carolyne is a less common spelling of the classic Caroline, which has been in use since the Middle Ages. The name first appeared in American records in 1882 and saw its peak popularity in 1942, fitting the mid-century taste for elaborate -lyne endings. Since 2000, its usage has been falling, reflecting a broader shift away from vintage spelling variations. Despite its decline, Carolyne remains a recognizable choice for parents seeking a traditional name with a distinctive touch.

Carolyne is a spelling variant of Caroline, itself the French feminine form of Carolus, the Latin form of Charles. The name ultimately derives from the Germanic element *karlaz* meaning 'free man.' It was introduced to England by the French in the 17th century and has been used steadily since.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Carrie, Carol, Lina, Caro

Variants: Caroline, Carolyn, Carolynn, Karoline

Sibling names for Carolyne

Names that share Carolyne's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

C is for Carolyne, our favorite little girl.

C is for Carolyne…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Carolyne's letter becomes Carolyne's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Carolyne's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Carolyne mean?
Carolyne means 'free woman' and is a variant of Caroline, the feminine form of Charles.
How popular is Carolyne today?
Carolyne is currently ranked 10,107 in the United States as of 2025, with approximately 1 in every 178,585 newborn girls receiving the name.
Is Carolyne a boy or girl name?
Carolyne is almost exclusively used as a girl's name.