The name Cole has its origins in an Old English word "col" which means "swarthy" or "coal-black". It arose as a nickname referring to a person with dark features or complexion. The name first appeared in medieval England during the 11th century.

Cole is a derived form of the medieval name Coll, a shortened version of the Germanic name Kolbain or Kolbrand, meaning "black stranger". Variations of the name include Col, Coll, and Colle, which were common spellings in medieval records.

One of the earliest known bearers of the name was Cole Lukyn, a member of the English Parliament who lived in the 14th century. Another notable figure was Cole Porter, the American composer and songwriter (1891-1964), known for his sophisticated lyrics and melodies in musicals like "Anything Goes" and "Kiss Me, Kate".

In the 16th century, Sir Cole of Gascony was a renowned knight who fought alongside King Arthur in the Arthurian legends. Although a fictional character, he was depicted as a brave and loyal companion to the legendary British king.

Nathaniel Cole, better known as Nat King Cole (1919-1965), was an influential American singer and jazz pianist. He popularized many hits like "Unforgettable" and "Mona Lisa", and was a pioneer in breaking racial barriers in the entertainment industry.

Another notable figure was Samuel Cole (1809-1892), an American manufacturer who founded the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company, one of the oldest railroads in the United States.

Herman Cole (1644-1692) was a British pirate and privateer who operated in the Caribbean during the late 17th century. He was known for his daring raids and infamous exploits, which made him a legendary figure in maritime history.