Find out how popular the first name Caryl has been for the last 23 years (from 1974 to 1996) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Caryl by gender

Based on the last 23 years of data, Caryl is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 93% of people named Caryl being female.

For the most recent data in 1996, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Caryl.

The history of the first name Caryl

The given name Caryl is believed to have originated from the ancient Greek name Karyllos, derived from the Greek word "karyon," meaning "nut" or "kernel." This suggests that the name may have been initially associated with concepts of fertility, growth, or nourishment.

The name's earliest recorded use dates back to ancient Greece, where it was borne by various individuals, although records of their specific identities are scarce. In the Middle Ages, the name Caryl gained some popularity among European nobility and aristocracy, particularly in regions influenced by Greek culture and language.

One of the earliest known bearers of the name Caryl was Caryl Whittington, a 13th-century English merchant and philanthropist who served as Lord Mayor of London in the years 1397 and 1406. He is remembered for his contributions to the city's infrastructure and for establishing the prestigious Whittington College.

Another notable figure with the name Caryl was Caryl Flanders (1886-1968), a British actress and playwright who gained recognition for her work on the London stage in the early 20th century. Her plays, such as "The Bride of Christ" and "The Voyage Home," explored themes of social commentary and human relationships.

In the realm of literature, Caryl Churchill (born 1938) is a renowned British playwright and academic. Her works, including "Top Girls," "Cloud Nine," and "Serious Money," have garnered critical acclaim for their exploration of gender roles, societal issues, and political themes. Churchill is considered one of the most influential playwrights of the late 20th century.

In the field of music, Caryl Brahms (1901-1982) was a British lyricist and writer best known for her collaborations with composer Ned Sherrin. Their works, including the musical "Salad Days," were popular in the mid-20th century and contributed to the post-war revival of British theater.

Another notable bearer of the name was Caryl Chessman (1921-1960), an American convicted criminal whose case sparked a national debate on capital punishment. His autobiographical works, particularly "Cell 2455, Death Row," brought attention to the ethical and legal aspects of the death penalty in the United States.

While the name Caryl has remained relatively uncommon throughout history, its unique origins and associations with various notable figures have contributed to its enduring presence and significance in various cultures and societies.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Caryl was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Caryl, please contact us.

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