What does Karis mean and where does it come from?
Karis has its origins in the Greek word 'χάρις' (charis), which signifies grace. The name has become increasingly popular in the United States and other English-speaking countries, particularly over the past few decades. It is sometimes thought of as a variant of the name Cara or as a derivative of
Cultural significance
Karis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of greek.
Peak popularity
Reached #865 in 2012 — currently #2038 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Karis?
Karis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Karis Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Karis Rose
Floral · soft ending
Karis Mae
Sweet · timeless
Karis Claire
French influence · crisp
Karis Jane
Literary · strong
Karis Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Karis right now?
Falling — down 213 spots — currently #2038 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #2038 | 96 | ▼ down 213 · -14% births |
| 2022 | #1825 | 112 | ▼ down 138 · -9% births |
| 2021 | #1687 | 123 | ▼ down 243 · -17% births |
| 2020 | #1444 | 149 | ▼ down 186 · -23% births |
| 2015 | #1258 | 194 | ▼ down 198 · -17% births |
| 2010 | #1060 | 234 | ▼ down 114 · -10% births |
| 2005 | #946 | 261 | ▲ up 834 · +166% births |
| 2000 | #1780 | 98 | ▼ down 30 · +18% births |
| 1995 | #1750 | 83 | ▲ up 409 · +38% births |
| 1990 | #2159 | 60 | ▼ down 318 · -2% births |
| 1985 | #1841 | 61 | ▲ up 783 · +69% births |
| 1980 | #2624 | 36 | ▲ up 934 · +89% births |
| 1975 | #3558 | 19 | ▲ up 789 · +46% births |
| 1970 | #4347 | 13 | ▼ down 1014 · -13% births |
| 1965 | #3333 | 15 | — |
The story of Karis
Karis entered American naming records in 1935 and has been in use for over 89 years. With 6,312 total births recorded, Karis remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4848 in 1935 to #2038 in 2023. Karis is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Karis in 2012:
Karis by decade
Karis peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1930s | 5 | |
| 1940s | 24 | |
| 1950s | 67 | |
| 1960s | 146 | |
| 1970s | 249 | |
| 1980s | 476 | |
| 1990s | 768 | |
| 2000s | 2,161 | |
| 2010s ★ | 2,261 | |
| 2020s | 155 | |
💎With 6,312 total births, Karis is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Karis?
Famous people named Karis
K(
Karis (modern Greek athlete)
Karis brought this name to international sporting recognition representing Greece.
K(
Karis (ancient philosopher)
Karis bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
K(
Karis (Greek mythological figure)
Karis carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
K(
Karis (Byzantine leader)
Karis used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
👑
Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Karis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Karis also consider these
Common questions about the name Karis
What does the name Karis mean?
Karis means "Greek" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Karis?
Karis 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 Karis?
Karis originates from Greek tradition. Greek 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 Karis?
Karis is a two-syllable name pronounced K EH1 R IY0 Z. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Karis a common or rare name?
Karis is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.