US Popularity:3574
Origin:German
Other Origin(s):Roman
Meaning:free man
Karl is a boy’s name of German origin. Karl means “free man” and is a great name for any baby who is ready to grow and explore the world around them. Karl is a popular name throughout Europe, including Germany, Sweden, and Norway. History fanatics amongst you will be aware that Karl was the name of several emperors of the Holy Roman Empire and Austria. Other famous bearers of the name Karl include German revolutionary Karl Marx and television personality Karl Pilkington, who is most well-known for his friendship with Ricky Gervais and the An Idiot Abroad series.

Famous People Named Karl

Wondering who else shares this name? Check out these well known people who made this baby name famous.
  • Karl Benz
    Inventor

Karl Name Popularity Data

The Bump Ranking

Overall:Karl is currently #2411 on The Bump
Boy:Karl is currently #741 on The Bump Boy Names

U.S. Births

Overall:Karl is currently #3574 in U.S. births
Boy:Karl is currently #1144 in U.S. births

Yearly Ranking Change:

Year:
2023
#3574
in 2023
- 544
from 2022
In comparison to the previous year's data
Sources
  • Behind the Name, Karl, December 2022

  • Hamari Web, Karl

Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial process.

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