Discover name insights instantly.

Uncover the origin, popularity, and more for any name.

Name Origin

Carolyn is a feminine given name, a variant of Caroline. It originates from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man' or 'man'. The suffix '-ine' denotes femininity.

germanicfemininevariantcarolinefreemasculine

Famous People

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy (1966-1999)

Fashion publicist, public figure

  • Married to John F. Kennedy Jr.
  • Known for her style and grace

Carolyn Porco (1953-)

Planetary scientist

  • Led the imaging science team for the Cassini mission to Saturn
  • Known for her contributions to our understanding of Saturn's rings and moons

Carolyn Shoemaker (1929-2021)

Astronomer

  • Discovered or co-discovered over 30 comets and 32 minor planets
  • Known for her work on impact craters on Earth and other planets