Spelling Variants
Carolina vs Caroline: Which Spelling?
Both are feminine forms of Carolus, derived from the same Latin root.
Global Rank #6
Carolina
Origin: Italian
Carolina is the feminine form of Carolus, derived from the Germanic name Charles, ultimately from the Germanic root "carl" meaning "man" or "free man." The name means "free woman" or…
Global Rank #34
Caroline
Origin: French
Caroline derives from the Latin name Carolus, meaning "free man" or "strong man," through the feminine suffix -ine.
Which is more popular? Based on real registry rankings, Carolina currently ranks higher globally. Popularity can vary a lot by country — check each name's own page for a full regional breakdown.