Karolyn is an English feminine given name that serves as a variant of Caroline. It can also be considered a diminutive form of Caroline or an alternate spelling of Karolin. Rooted in the same etymological lineage as Charles, the name ultimately derives from the Germanic word meaning "man" (Proto-Germanic *karlaz) or possibly from *harjaz meaning "army". Karolyn thus shares the noble and regal associations of its source names, which were borne by numerous European rulers including Charlemagne and a procession of Holy Roman Emperors, and monarchs of France, Spain, and Sweden.Usage and VariantsKarolyn is primarily an English name, but also appears in Swedish, often as a parallel to the Scandinavian Karolin. Related variant forms include Carlyn, Carolyn, and Caroline; these are largely region-specific or prefer changing vowel pronunciations. Common English diminutives such as Callie or Cari naturally relate to Karolyn as they often come from Caroline.Notable BearersAccording to Wikipedia, bearers worth noting include:Karolyn Ali (1944–2015), American film and music video producerKarolyn Grimes (born 1940), American actress, best known for playing Zuzu in It's a Wonderful LifeKarolyn Kirby (born 1961), American beach volleyball playerKarolyn Nelke (born 1948), American actor, playwright and authorKarolyn Smardz Frost, Canadian historian and archaeologistKey FactsMeaning: "Man" or "army" (via Charles)Origin: English variant of Caroline, ultimately GermanicType: Feminine given nameUsage regions: English-speaking world, Sweden