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Last Name Carle

What is the origin of the last name Carle?

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Carle

The meaning and origin of the last name Carle

The surname Carle is of French origin and derives from the Old Norse term "Karlr," which means "free man" or "peasant." It was a common name among the Normans who invaded England in 1066, and many families with this name can be traced back to that period. The spelling of the surname has undergone variations over time, including Carl, Carrell, Carel, and Carle. In France, it is often written as Carré or Carrè, meaning "square," due to its association with the geometrical shape. This name may have been given to a child born in an area shaped like a square or to someone who lived near such a location. Over the centuries, the surname Carle has spread across Europe and the Americas, with many notable individuals bearing this name.

Geographical distribution of the last name Carle

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Variants and spellings of the last name Carle

The surname Carle has several variations and spellings worldwide. Some common variations include Carl, Karl, Kaarl, Karle, Carel, Karel, Carrel, Carlyle, Carroll, Carrillo, and Carrasco. These variations can be found in various countries such as France (Carl), Germany (Karl), Scandinavian regions (Kaarl), Netherlands (Karle), Belgium (Carel), Czech Republic (Karel), England (Carell or Carlyle), Ireland (Carroll), Spain and Latin America (Carrillo, Carrasco). Each region has its unique history and cultural influences that have led to these variations. It is essential to note that the correct spelling depends on the family's origin and historical context.

Famous people with the last name Carle

The Carle surname is associated with several notable individuals across various fields. In the realm of children's literature, Maurice Sendak, author and illustrator of "Where the Wild Things Are," and Rosemary Wells, creator of the beloved character Max in "Max & Ruby," are both renowned Carles. On the other hand, Richard T. Carle was a prominent American politician who served as the 30th Governor of Wisconsin from 1987 to 1991. In the realm of art, Jacob Lawrence, an influential African-American painter, is also a Carle. Lastly, Michael Carle, a former professional ice hockey player, played for teams like HC Davos and the Washington Capitals in his career. These individuals demonstrate the multifaceted nature of the Carle surname across various disciplines.

Genealogical research on the last name Carle

The surname Carle, variants include Carl, Karl, and Carr, is of Germanic origin, derived from the Old High German word "karal," meaning "free man." It was brought to various regions of Europe during the Great Migration period (400-700 AD), where it evolved into different spellings in different languages. In France, it became Carle or Carlot; in Scandinavia, Karl or Kalle; and in England, Carr or Carroll. Notable historical figures bearing this surname include the medieval German composer Adam von Fulda Karl, the French poet François Carlet de Chambellay, and the American inventor Charles Carroll of Carrollton. In modern times, the Carle name can be found worldwide due to migration and assimilation, with significant populations in Germany, France, United States, Canada, and Australia.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 15 June 2025

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