Cole

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Cole

Gender Boy
Origin Celtic
Letters 4
Syllables 2
Pronunciation kohl

Cole, which has 4 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Celtic origin.

Meaning of Cole

Warrior

The name Cole is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word “cola”, meaning “swarthy, coal-black, charcoal”. It is also a diminutive of the name Nicholas, derived from the Greek “Nikolaos”, meaning “people of victory”.

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Meaning Warrior
Origin Celtic
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #163 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Moderate (Top 250)
Era 2000s name

Background & History of The Name Cole

The name "Cole" is of English origin and is a variant of the name "Colin." It is derived from the Gaelic "coileán," which means "young creature" or "puppy." The name first gained popularity in medieval England and Scotland as a surname before being used as a given name in its own right.

Cole has a simple and timeless quality to it, which has contributed to its enduring popularity. It has been consistently used as both a first name and a surname throughout history. In recent years, it has gained even more popularity as a given name, partly due to its association with famous individuals who bear the name. For example, Cole Porter, the renowned American composer and songwriter, brought attention to the name in the music industry during the early 20th century.

As a given name, Cole possesses a strong and confident aura. It is often associated with characteristics such as determination, ambition, and leadership. The name is also commonly linked to integrity and honesty, as it is derived from the Gaelic word for "puppy," symbolizing loyalty and devotion. In addition to English-speaking countries, the name Cole has also gained popularity in various other cultures around the world, such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Parents often choose the name Cole for their children due to its simplicity, classic appeal, and versatility. It is a name that suits both boys and girls, giving it a unisex quality. Moreover, Cole is compatible with a vast range of middle names and surnames, making it easy to find complementary combinations. Its brevity makes it an ideal choice for parents who prefer shorter names that are easy to pronounce and remember, and it works well with a variety of different last names.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Cole over the years.

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Common nicknames and short forms for Cole.

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