Carel Fabritius
17th-century Dutch painter, pupil of Rembrandt, known for innovative use of light and perspective.
IPA Pronunciation
ˈkɑːrəl
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Syllables
Carel is a Dutch and Afrikaans variant of the name Charles, derived from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man.' Historically, it signified a man of free status, not a serf or slave. Its roots trace back to Old High German and were popularized in medieval Europe, symbolizing strength and freedom.
Cultural Significance of Carel
Carel, as a variant of Charles, carries a rich cultural history associated with nobility, freedom, and leadership, particularly in Dutch and Afrikaans cultures. It reflects a heritage of strength and independence, often appearing in literature and historical records as a name for free men and leaders.
Carel Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Carel remains relatively uncommon but appreciated in Dutch-speaking regions and South Africa. Its classic roots give it a timeless appeal, favored by parents seeking a traditional yet distinctive name with strong cultural ties and a noble meaning.
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More Boy Names Starting With C10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Carel carries the essence of “Free man” from Germanic tradition. Names beginning with "C" often embody qualities of creativity, communication, and charm.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Carel, as a variant of Charles, carries a rich cultural history associated with nobility, freedom, and leadership, particularly in Dutch and Afrikaans cultures. It reflects a heritage of strength and independence, often appearing in literature and historical records as a name for free men and leaders.
Carel van Savoyen
Flemish painter active in the Dutch Golden Age, noted for portraits and history paintings.
Carel Adolph Lion Cachet
Dutch designer and decorative artist influential in early 20th-century Dutch art and design.
Carel Struycken
Actor
Carel van Schaik
Primatologist
Carel Reyniersz
Governor-General
Twin Peaks ()
The Addams Family ()
Star Trek: The Next Generation ()
Carel
🌐Spanish
Carel
🌐French
Carel
🌐German
Carel
🌐Italian
カーレル
🌐Japanese
卡雷尔
🌐Chinese
كاريل
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Carel
Carel is the Dutch form of Charles, the name of many European kings, including Charlemagne, the legendary Frankish ruler who united much of Western Europe.
Personality Traits for Carel
Those named Carel are often associated with qualities like independence, strength, and reliability. They tend to be confident leaders with a grounded nature, valuing freedom and integrity. The name suggests a warm, approachable personality with a hint of sophistication.
What does the name Carel mean?
Carel is a Germanic name meaning “Free man”. Carel is a Dutch and Afrikaans variant of the name Charles, derived from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man.' Historically, it signified a man of free status, not a serf or slave. Its roots trace back to Old High German and were popularized in medieval Europe, symbolizing strength and freedom.
How do you pronounce Carel?
Carel is pronounced (IPA: ˈkɑːrəl). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Carel?
Popular nicknames for Carel include: Caz, Care, Carlie, Rel, Car, Cary, Caro, Kare, Karel, C-Man.
Who are famous people named Carel?
Famous people named Carel include: , , , Carel Struycken, Carel van Schaik.
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Carel is a beautiful Germanic name meaning “Free man”. Carel is a Dutch and Afrikaans variant of the name Charles, derived from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man.' Historically, it signified a man of free status, not a serf or slave. Its roots tra...
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