“Pure, chaste.” — Associated with negative cultural memes i
Denmark origin · Girl name
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#1089US 2023
226Births / yr
↑Rising
989.7kAll-time births
📅 Since 1881🏆 49 years in top 1001.86% of births at peak
How to pronounce Karen
KAH·REN
/ˈkɑ.ˈrɛn/ · stress on KAH · 2 syllables
“Pure, chaste.”
Associated with negative cultural memes i · Denmark origin
What does Karen mean and where does it come from?
Karen has roots in the Danish form of Katherine, which means 'pure'. It gained widespread popularity in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century. The name had a renaissance in the 1940s and '50s in the United States. While it has sometimes been associated with negative cultural memes i
Cultural significance
Karen has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Denmark-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pure, chaste..
Rising fast — up 128 spots — currently #1089 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1885–2023#1089 · Top 0.80%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1089
226
▲ up 128 · +14% births
2022
#1217
199
▼ down 129 · -13% births
2021
#1088
229
▼ down 258 · -30% births
2020
#830
325
▼ down 325 · -48% births
2015
#505
626
▼ down 257 · -51% births
2010
#248
1,286
▼ down 84 · -38% births
2005
#164
2,064
▼ down 11 · -5% births
2000
#153
2,173
▼ down 11 · -4% births
1995
#142
2,270
▼ down 22 · -16% births
1990
#120
2,716
▼ down 33 · -13% births
1985
#87
3,139
▼ down 33 · -38% births
1980
#54
5,054
▼ down 27 · -38% births
1975
#27
8,166
▼ down 15 · -51% births
1970
#12
16,701
▼ down 9 · -49% births
1965
#3
32,872
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Karen
1965Rank #3
36,380
#506
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Karen
Karen has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. It peaked at #3 in 1965, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. Over 990K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. Once ranked #735 in 1885, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1089 in 2023. Karen is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Karen means "Pure, chaste." — a name rooted in Denmark 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 Karen?
Karen is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby 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 Karen?
Karen originates from Denmark tradition. Denmark 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 Karen?
Karen is a two-syllable name pronounced K AA1 R EH1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Karen a common or rare name?
Karen is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Karen
For a sister
Karen & Lene♡
Karen & Bille♡
Karen & Jensen♡
Karen & Mette♡
For a brother
Karen & Bille♡
Karen & Jensen♡
Karen & Tyge♡
Karen & Soren♡
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