Carl: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days are historically significant cultural celebrations in many parts of the world, providing an opportunity to honor the patron saint or traditional calendar date linked to a specific name. For the classic name Carl, known for its strong and grounded mood, this celebratory observance in the USA falls annually on November 4. Tracing its powerful roots back to Germanic terms signifying a “free man,” the name possesses a stable and straightforward origin. Its history in the USA reflects classic immigration patterns, establishing Carl as a long-standing, traditional fixture. This combination of classicism, a reliable mood, and a defined observance day establishes the comprehensive profile of this enduring name.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Carl's name day is celebrated
on November 4 in the USA.
The Story Behind This Name
The name Carl has a long history of use in the USA, often introduced through European immigration waves, particularly those originating from Germany and Scandinavia. It experienced peak popularity during the early to mid-20th century, becoming a well-established and universally recognized choice across the nation. While its usage has moderated somewhat in recent decades compared to its height, Carl remains a deeply respected and traditional American name. It serves as a strong, straightforward variant favored by parents looking for a classic alternative to names like Charles or Karl. The name often conveys an image of reliability and a practical, grounded persona within the American naming landscape.
Name origin and meaning
The name Carl is recognized as the Scandinavian and German form derived from the Old German name Karl, which is the progenitor of the English name Charles. Its fundamental meaning revolves around concepts of autonomy and common identity, generally translated as either "free man" or simply "man." Etymologically, it does not carry connotations of high nobility but rather describes a commoner who is independent and unrestrained. This name’s linguistic roots are deeply embedded in the structures common throughout the broader Germanic language family. The inherent definition highlights a general masculine identity and personal freedom rather than high status or rank.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Carl is overwhelmingly classified as a traditionally masculine name across nearly all cultures where it is utilized worldwide. In the vast majority of European countries, including Germany, Sweden, and Denmark, it functions exclusively as a male given name. This strong gender association is also firmly maintained throughout North America and the Anglophone world. While some cultures might feature phonetically similar female names, the spelling Carl distinctly denotes a male identity. It holds a stable position as a classic male choice without significant contemporary usage as a unisex identifier.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
The name Carl projects a notably strong and highly traditional mood, often evoking a sense of dependability and deeply ingrained groundedness. It carries a straightforward and no-nonsense tone, suggesting a personality that prioritizes practical strength and maturity over frivolity or elaborate elegance. The vibe associated with Carl is classic and enduring, aligning with a reliable character who is stable and perhaps serious when the situation requires. It leans away from whimsical or overly soft interpretations, embodying a robust and respectable quality across generations. This moniker suggests an individual who is solid and trustworthy in nature.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Carl
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 7 – The Seeker.
Keywords: Introspection, wisdom, spirituality, knowledge, analytical thinking.
Positive Traits: Deep thinker, philosophical, intuitive, intellectual, private.
Challenges: Can be aloof, secretive, or overly skeptical.
Life Path Meaning: A spiritual and intellectual journey of deep self-discovery.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 9 - The Humanitarian.
Traits: Compassionate, idealistic, wise, selfless.
Strengths: Generous, charismatic, inspires others.
Challenges: Can be overly emotional, self-sacrificing, or struggle with boundaries.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Neptune - Spirituality, Dreams, Creativity.
Neptune is the planet of mysticism, dreams, and intuition. Names ruled by Neptune tend to belong to highly imaginative, artistic, and spiritually attuned individuals. These names reflect deep emotional sensitivity, creativity, and an affinity for the unseen or mystical. People with Neptune-ruled names are often drawn to artistic and spiritual pursuits.
Name days: Name Carl
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 USA | November | 4 | Amory, Cara, Carl, Carla, Carley, Carlo, Carlos, Carly, Carol, Carolina, Caroline, Carolyn, Carrie, Carroll, Charles, Charlie, Chaz, Chuck, Emery, Karl, Karla, Karlee, Karli, Karly |
Name days: Similar names (Carl)
Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
| USA | January | 28 | Carlotta, Charleen, Charlene, Charlotta, Charlotte, Charmaine, Manfred |
| USA | January | 31 | Cyrus, Kira, Kyra, Lona, Loni, Lonnie, Scarlett, Zane |
| USA | March | 6 | Carlton, Charlton, Colette, Collette |
 Austria | September | 10 | Carlo, Diethard, Isabella |
 Italy | November | 4 | Carlo Borromeo |
 Spain | November | 4 | Carlos, Carlota, Carolina |
| Austria | December | 15 | Carlo, Christiane, Nina |
Carl: A Dependable Traditional Choice
The masculine name Carl is founded upon the powerful etymological meaning of “free man,” a derivation that strongly contributes to its reliable and traditional mood. Throughout its history in the USA, it has maintained a respected and enduring position, recognized globally as an unambiguously male name. Its peak prevalence in the 20th century cemented its status as a classic, stable choice in North America and beyond. This enduring masculine name is annually celebrated in the USA on November 4, allowing those who bear it to connect with its rich historical and cultural significance. Carl ultimately stands as a dependable moniker, expertly balancing a powerful lineage with a persona of tradition and strength.
When Is Your Name Day?
Discover your name day quickly and easily with our name day search tool. Simply enter your name in the search box below, and you'll instantly see the exact date of your name day celebration. Find out when to celebrate and never miss a special occasion!
