Word Origin & History
carolc.1300, from O.Fr. carole "kind of dance," from M.L. choraula "a dance to the flute," from L. choraules, from Gk. khoraules "flute player who accompanies the choral dance," from khoros "chorus" + aulein "to play the flute," from aulos "reed instrument." The meaning of "Christmas hymn" is c.1500.