The
Carolingian dynasty (known variously as the
Carlovingians,
Carolingus,
Carolings or
Karlings) was a
Frankish noble family with origins in the
Arnulfing and Pippinid clans of the 7th century AD. The name "Carolingian" (
Medieval Latin karolingi, an altered form of an unattested
Old High German *
karling, kerling, meaning "descendant of Charles", cf.
MHG kerlinc) derives from the Latinised name of
Charles Martel:
Carolus. The family consolidated its power in the late 8th century, eventually making the offices of
mayor of the palace and
dux et princeps Francorum hereditary and becoming the
de facto rulers of the Franks as the real powers behind the throne.
