Holding steady.
Popularity of Carrol since 1890
Babies named Carrol per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1890s | 0 | 34 |
| 1900s | 11 | 83 |
| 1910s | 130 | 725 |
| 1920s | 377 | 1,465 |
| 1930s | 919 | 1,705 |
| 1940s | 1,556 | 1,204 |
| 1950s | 673 | 481 |
| 1960s | 361 | 208 |
| 1970s | 145 | 111 |
| 1980s | 54 | 51 |
| 1990s | 21 | 0 |
| 2000s | 5 | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Carrol, a variant spelling of Carroll, first appeared in U.S. records in 1890 and was most popular during the 1930s, reaching its peak year in 1930. Though it has since fallen out of common use, the name saw a stable trajectory with modest usage through the mid-20th century. Its Irish origins connect it to the Gaelic name Cearbhall, meaning 'fierce in battle', which also gave rise to the more common spelling Carroll. The 'girls' spelling (often with a single 'l') enjoyed a brief vogue alongside other Irish surname-names for girls. Today, Carrol is a rare choice, appealing to parents seeking a vintage, Celtic-inspired name.
Carrol is a variant spelling of Carroll, which itself is an anglicized form of the Irish Gaelic name Cearbhall. The name's meaning is debated, with common interpretations including 'fierce in battle' or 'valiant'. Historically, it was used as a surname before being adopted as a given name, particularly for girls in the early 20th century.
Where Carrol is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Carrie, Carol
Sibling names for Carrol
Names that share Carrol's style, for a brother or sister.
