What does Chares mean and where does it come from?
Chares originates from Greek, where it is derived from the word for 'joy'. Historically, Chares is a classical name known in ancient Greece and is related to notable historical figures. The name has variations in other cultures but remains relatively rare. Its use today may be associated with a desi
Cultural significance
Chares has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of joy.
Peak popularity
Reached #2858 in 1961 — currently #830 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Chares?
Chares works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Chares Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Chares Rose
Floral · soft ending
Chares Mae
Sweet · timeless
Chares Claire
French influence · crisp
Chares Jane
Literary · strong
Chares Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Chares right now?
Holding steady — currently #830 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #830 | 1,370 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #835 | 1,350 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #840 | 1,320 | ▲ up 4956 · +26300% births |
| 1975 | #5796 | 5 | ▼ down 2611 · -37% births |
| 1965 | #3185 | 8 | ▲ up 398 · +14% births |
| 1960 | #3583 | 7 | ▼ down 283 |
| 1950 | #3300 | 7 | — |
The story of Chares
Chares entered American naming records in 1939 and has been in use for over 85 years. With 69 total births recorded, Chares remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3300 in 1950 to #830 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Chares in 1961:
Chares by decade
Chares peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1930s | 5 | |
| 1940s | 11 | |
| 1950s | 13 | |
| 1960s ★ | 35 | |
| 1970s | 5 | |
💎Chares has only 69 total recorded births since 1939 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Chares?
Common
ChaCharCharieCharyAres
What names sound and feel like Chares?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Chares also consider these
How is Chares written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Chares?
Common questions about the name Chares
What does the name Chares mean?
Chares means "Joy" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Chares?
Chares is currently ranked #830 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Chares?
Chares originates from Greece tradition. Greece 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 Chares?
Chares is a two-syllable name pronounced CH AA1 R EY1 Z. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Chares a common or rare name?
Chares is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.