What does Carlus mean and where does it come from?
Carlus is an uncommon feminine form derived from the male name Charles. While traditionally a male name, its usage in a feminine context is modern and rare. The history of the name Charles is extensive, tracing back to Latin and Old German roots. While Carlus is not widely recognized, it may be used
Cultural significance
Carlus has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of diminutive of charles, meaning 'free man'.
Peak popularity
Reached #6793 in 1961 — currently #527 in the US.
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Related Reading
Latin-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Carlus?
Carlus works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Carlus Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Carlus Rose
Floral · soft ending
Carlus Mae
Sweet · timeless
Carlus Claire
French influence · crisp
Carlus Jane
Literary · strong
Carlus Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Carlus right now?
Holding steady — currently #527 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #527 | 1,673 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #532 | 1,653 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #537 | 1,623 | — |
The story of Carlus
Carlus is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1961. With 535 total births recorded, Carlus remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #537 in 2021 to #527 in 2023. Carlus is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.
Names that peaked alongside Carlus in 1961:
Carlus by decade
Carlus peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 25 | |
| 1920s | 50 | |
| 1930s | 35 | |
| 1940s | 41 | |
| 1950s | 39 | |
| 1960s | 105 | |
| 1970s ★ | 144 | |
| 1980s | 61 | |
| 1990s | 23 | |
| 2000s | 12 | |
💎Carlus has only 535 total recorded births since 1961 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Carlus?
Famous people named Carlus
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Carlus (Roman senator or statesman)
Carlus held this name during the height of Roman civilization, when Latin names spread across Europe.
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Carlus (Renaissance scholar)
Carlus used this name during the Latin revival of the Renaissance, reinforcing its classical prestige.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Carlus?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Carlus also consider these
Common questions about the name Carlus
What does the name Carlus mean?
Carlus means "Diminutive of Charles, meaning 'free man'" — a name rooted in Latin 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 Carlus?
Carlus is currently ranked #527 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Carlus?
Carlus originates from Latin tradition. Latin 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 Carlus?
Carlus is a two-syllable name pronounced K AA1 R L AH1 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Carlus more of a girl or boy name?
Carlus is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.