A masculine given name of Germanic origin, also historically used to mean a free peasant or common man in medieval contexts. In some dialects, refers to a rough or uncouth person.
From Old Norse 'karl' meaning 'man, fellow,' related to Old English 'ceorl' (churl). Originally distinguished free men from nobles and slaves in medieval hierarchies, later becoming a personal name while 'churl' retained negative connotations.
Try Another Word