Charles
Charles first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1947, when 40,781 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 5,898.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Charles popular?
Steady Charles has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1947.
| 2020s | 35,125 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 70,024 | |
| 2000s | 75,334 | |
| 1990s | 92,434 | |
| 1980s | 131,902 | |
| 1970s | 163,021 | |
| 1960s | 249,398 | |
| 1950s | 361,177 | |
| 1940s | 361,772 | |
| 1930s | 303,218 | |
| 1920s | 298,031 | |
| 1910s | 173,535 | |
| 1900s | 36,184 | |
| 1890s | 36,848 | |
| 1880s | 46,656 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Charles mean?
Charles is a Germanic name meaning “free man.” It was borne by Charlemagne — Charles the Great — and by a long line of European kings and emperors.
Nicknames for Charles
- Charlie
- Chuck
- Chas
Variants & spellings
- Carlos
- Carl
- Karl
- Carlo
Names like Charles
Germanic names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Charles
Popular Germanic names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Charles
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Charles mean?
Charles means Free man. Charles is a Germanic name meaning “free man.” It was borne by Charlemagne — Charles the Great — and by a long line of European kings and emperors.
What is the origin of the name Charles?
Charles is of Germanic origin.
How do you pronounce Charles?
Charles is pronounced “CHARLZ.”
Is Charles a boy or a girl name?
Charles is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Charles a popular name right now?
Charles has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1947.
How popular is the name Charles?
In 2025, Charles ranked #48 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Charles most popular?
Charles was most popular in 1947, when about 40,781 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Charles?
Common nicknames for Charles include Charlie, Chuck, Chas.
What names are similar to Charles?
Names similar to Charles include Edward, Henry, George, William.
What names go well with Charles?
Germanic names that pair well with Charles include Robert, William, Emma, Walter, Amelia.