What does Karlina mean and where does it come from?
Karlina is often associated with Russian and Slavic cultures, where it is considered a feminine form of Karl. The name has roots in the word 'karālu', which means 'free'. In some contexts, it can also be interpreted as a diminutive form of Karla. It is a modern and fashionable name in certain region
Cultural significance
Karlina has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Slavic countries-speaking communities, where it reflects values of slavic.
Peak popularity
Reached #7192 in 1990 — currently #12829 in the US.
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Related Reading
Slavic countries-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Karlina?
Karlina works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Karlina Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Karlina Rose
Floral · soft ending
Karlina Mae
Sweet · timeless
Karlina Claire
French influence · crisp
Karlina Jane
Literary · strong
Karlina Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Karlina right now?
Falling — down 3118 spots — currently #12829 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2021 | #12829 | 7 | ▼ down 3118 · -36% births |
| 2015 | #9711 | 11 | ▲ up 2944 · +38% births |
| 2010 | #12655 | 8 | ▲ up 872 · +14% births |
| 2005 | #13527 | 7 | ▼ down 5229 · -42% births |
| 2000 | #8298 | 12 | ▲ up 943 · +33% births |
| 1995 | #9241 | 9 | ▼ down 2049 · -25% births |
| 1990 | #7192 | 12 | — |
The story of Karlina
Karlina is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1981. With 315 total births recorded, Karlina remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #7192 in 1990, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12829 in 2021.
Names that peaked alongside Karlina in 1990:
Karlina by decade
Karlina peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s | 41 | |
| 1990s | 93 | |
| 2000s ★ | 96 | |
| 2010s | 85 | |
💎Karlina has only 315 total recorded births since 1981 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Karlina?
What names sound and feel like Karlina?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Karlina also consider these
Common questions about the name Karlina
What does the name Karlina mean?
Karlina means "Slavic" — a name rooted in Slavic countries 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 Karlina?
Karlina 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 Karlina?
Karlina originates from Slavic countries tradition. Slavic countries names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
What sibling names go well with Karlina?
Karlina pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Slavic countries heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Is Karlina a common or rare name?
Karlina is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.