“free man” — Associated with strong feminine traits
American origin · used since the 20th century
♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls
#15632US 2023
5Births / yr
↑Rising
1.4kAll-time births
📅 Since 191000
How to pronounce Carlena
KAH·RLEE·nuh
/ˈkɑ.ˈrliː.nə/ · stress on KAH · 3 syllables
“free man”
Associated with strong feminine traits · American origin
What does Carlena mean and where does it come from?
Carlena is a variation of the name Carla, which itself is derived from Charles, a name of Germanic origin meaning 'free man'. It is predominantly used in the United States and is often associated with strong feminine traits. The name has been used since the 20th century and has seen various regional
Cultural significance
Carlena has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of free man.
Peak popularity
Reached #2072 in 1975 — currently #15632 in the US.
Rising fast — up 83 spots — currently #15632 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1910–2023#15632 · Top 12%
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#15632
5
▲ up 83
2021
#15715
5
▼ down 2290 · -17% births
2020
#13425
6
▼ down 3909 · -45% births
2015
#9516
11
▲ up 2825 · +38% births
2010
#12341
8
▼ down 2850 · -27% births
2005
#9491
11
▼ down 3255 · -35% births
2000
#6236
17
▼ down 769
1995
#5467
17
▼ down 384 · -6% births
1990
#5083
18
▼ down 1339 · -18% births
1985
#3744
22
▼ down 407 · -12% births
1980
#3337
25
▼ down 1265 · -40% births
1975
#2072
42
▲ up 1836 · +180% births
1970
#3908
15
▼ down 1045 · -21% births
1965
#2863
19
▲ up 263 · +19% births
1960
#3126
16
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Carlena
1975Rank #2072
42
#6090
↘Falling
1910 - 202324 years
The story of Carlena
Carlena entered American naming records in 1910 and has been in use for over 114 years. With 1,399 total births recorded, Carlena remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2125 in 1910, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #15632 in 2023.
Carlena means "free man" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Carlena?
Carlena is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Carlena?
Carlena originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Carlena?
Carlena is a three-syllable name pronounced K AA1 R L IY1 N AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Carlena?
Carlena pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Carlena
For a sister
Carlena & Weston♡
Carlena & Austin♡
Carlena & Summer♡
Carlena & Ashton♡
For a brother
Carlena & Matthew♡
Carlena & Wesley♡
Carlena & Weston♡
Carlena & Austin♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#15632
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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