What does the term Carolingian mean?

The term "Carolingian" refers to the Carolingian dynasty, a Frankish noble family that rose to prominence in the 8th and 9th centuries, particularly under the leadership of figures like Charlemagne. This period is characterized by significant cultural and political developments in medieval Europe, including the Carolingian Renaissance, which saw a revival of art, learning, and literature. The dynasty is named after Charles Martel and his descendants, who played a crucial role in uniting much of Western Europe under a centralized rule. The Carolingian Empire laid the foundations for modern European states.