Carlyle
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Carlyle
Carlyle, which has 7 letters and 3 syllables, is a male name of English origin.
Meaning of Carlyle
Carl's island
The name Carlyle is of Old French origin and is derived from the name Carlisle, which means "fortress of the walled city". It is also thought to mean "free man".
| Meaning | Carl's island |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #925 in 1950 Rising Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1910s) |
Background & History of The Name Carlyle
The name Carlyle is of Scottish origin and is derived from a place name in Scotland. It is a locational surname that originated from the Old English words "carl" meaning "freeholder" or "peasant" and "leah" meaning "wood" or "clearing." As a surname, Carlyle denotes someone who belonged to or lived near the Carlyle village or town. The original Carlyle village is located in the old county of Dumfriesshire, Scotland. The name Carlyle has evolved over centuries and has variations like Carliol and Carlike.
The name Carlyle gained prominence when it was adopted as a masculine given name in the 19th century. Notable individuals bearing the name Carlyle include Thomas Carlyle, a Scottish historian, philosopher, and writer of the Victorian era. Thomas Carlyle's works, such as "The French Revolution: A History" and "Sartor Resartus," left a lasting impact on literature and history.
Today, Carlyle is considered a unisex given name and is often used for both girls and boys. It has a sophisticated and elegant quality to it, making it a popular choice among parents looking for a name that is both timeless and unique. Carlyle is distinctive without being overly common, and its Scottish roots add a touch of heritage and tradition.
In addition to being a given name and a surname, Carlyle is also associated with various places and institutions. The Carlyle Group, a global investment firm, is one such example. It was founded in 1987 and has become renowned for its private equity investments around the world.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Carlyle over the years.
Check Initials
See what initials Carlyle would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Carlyle.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account