Carl vs William
Choosing between Carl and William? Compare meanings, origins, and popularity trends to find the perfect baby name.
Carl
Gender: boy
Origin: Germanic
Meaning: Free man
Peak: 1915 (0.75%)
William
Gender: boy
Origin: Germanic
Meaning: Resolute protector
Peak: 1880 (8.05%)
Popularity Comparison
| Year | Carl | William |
|---|---|---|
| 1880 | 0.31% | 8.05% |
| 1890 | 0.58% | 6.26% |
| 1900 | 0.63% | 5.29% |
| 1910 | 0.64% | 4.24% |
| 1920 | 0.64% | 4.56% |
| 1930 | 0.62% | 4.19% |
| 1940 | 0.57% | 3.78% |
| 1950 | 0.40% | 3.34% |
| 1960 | 0.36% | 2.28% |
| 1970 | 0.23% | 2.04% |
| 1980 | 0.16% | 1.38% |
| 1990 | 0.10% | 1.16% |
| 2000 | 0.05% | 0.99% |
Parents Also Consider
FAQ
Is Carl or William more popular?
William has historically been more popular. Carl peaked in 1915 while William peaked in 1880.
What is the meaning of Carl?
Carl means "Free man" and has Germanic origins.
What is the meaning of William?
William means "Resolute protector" and has Germanic origins.
Can Carl and William be used as sibling names?
Carl and William can work well as sibling names. They share Germanic origins, giving a cohesive feel.