Cole

Cole is a surname that is now used as a given name for boys. The surname itself came from a given name from medieval times. The origin and meaning of the original name are not known for certain. According to Ask Oxford, "It may represent a survival into Middle English of the Old English byname Cola 'swarthy', 'coal-black', from col 'charcoal'." Cole is currently a popular name in the U.S., Canada, and Scotland. The children's nursery rhyme "Old King Cole," like many nursery rhymes, might have a factual basis. There were several rulers of ancient Britain named Coel, and one of them was probably at least the inspiration for "Old King Cole." Which one seems to be open to some debate. The most famous Cole whose existence is not in doubt, was Cole Porter. This makes a wonderful name for a black dog, such as a black lab.