Cole

Meaning of Cole

Cole means "coal black". It was often used as a nickname for someone with dark hair or a dark complexion.

Cole has English roots — browse every English baby name in our catalog.

Popularity of Cole

Cole has cooled off, slipping to #182 in 2025, down from a peak of #69 in 2002.

Notable people named Cole

• Cole Sprouse
  Actor, "Riverdale"
• Nat King Cole
  Jazz singer and pianist
• Cole Hauser
  Actor, "Yellowstone"
• Cole Hamels
  Professional baseball player
• Cole Anthony
  Professional basketball player

More English names

Questions about the name Cole

What does the name Cole mean?

Cole means cole means "coal black". it was often used as a nickname for someone with dark hair or a dark complexion, and it comes from English origins.

Is Cole a boy's or a girl's name?

Cole is most commonly used as a boy's name in the United States.

How popular is the name Cole?

In 2025, Cole ranked #182 for boys, down from #163 the year before.

When was Cole most popular?

Cole peaked at #69 in 2002.