“Carlene is derived from Charles and has been in use since the 19th century”
American origin · Girl name
♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls
#12386US 2023
7Births / yr
↓Falling
15.2kAll-time births
📅 Since 189500.03% of births at peak
How to pronounce Carlene
KAH·rleen
/ˈkɑ.ˌrliːn/ · stress on KAH · 2 syllables
“Carlene is derived from Charles and has been in use since the 19th century”
American origin · Girl name
What does Carlene mean and where does it come from?
Carlene is derived from Charles and has been in use since the 19th century. Its popularity peaked in the mid-20th century in English-speaking countries. Notable people include Carlene Carter, an American country music singer.
Cultural significance
Carlene has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #377 in 1936 — currently #12386 in the US.
Falling — down 5041 spots — currently #12386 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1895–2023#12386 · Top 9.1%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#12386
7
▼ down 5041 · -53% births
2022
#7345
15
▲ up 3100 · +67% births
2021
#10445
9
▼ down 2093 · -25% births
2020
#8352
12
▼ down 1378 · -29% births
2015
#6974
17
▼ down 778 · -19% births
2010
#6196
21
▼ down 2376 · -45% births
2005
#3820
38
▼ down 1801 · -54% births
2000
#2019
82
▲ up 228 · +39% births
1995
#2247
59
▼ down 451 · -26% births
1990
#1796
80
▼ down 230 · +4% births
1985
#1566
77
▼ down 265 · -21% births
1980
#1301
98
▼ down 17 · +13% births
1975
#1284
87
▼ down 397 · -42% births
1970
#887
150
▼ down 254 · -37% births
1965
#633
239
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Carlene
1940Rank #395
371
#2891
↘Falling
1910 - 202326 years
The story of Carlene
Carlene has been a beloved American name for over 129 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1895. A total of 15,176 babies have received this name. Once ranked #1770 in 1895, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12386 in 2023.
Carlene means "English" — 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 Carlene?
Carlene 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 Carlene?
Carlene 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 Carlene?
Carlene is a two-syllable name pronounced K AA1 R L IY2 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Carlene a common or rare name?
Carlene is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Carlene
For a sister
Carlene & Harrison♡
Carlene & Dean♡
Carlene & Grant♡
Carlene & King♡
For a brother
Carlene & Harrison♡
Carlene & Dean♡
Carlene & Grant♡
Carlene & King♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#12386
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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