What does Kartik mean and where does it come from?
Kartik is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Kārtika' and is traditionally associated with the Hindu god Kartikeya, the son of Shiva and Parvati. In Indian culture, the name is particularly common in Hindu communities and often reflects the lunar month in the Hindu calendar known as Kartika, during whi
Cultural significance
Kartik has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of son of lord shiva, a star, one who is bright as the stars..
Peak popularity
Reached #3855 in 2000 — currently #7947 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kartik?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kartik?
Kartik works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kartik Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Kartik John
One syllable · timeless choice
Kartik Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Kartik Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Kartik Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Kartik Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Kartik right now?
Falling — down 435 spots — currently #7947 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #7947 | 10 | ▼ down 435 · -9% births |
| 2024 | #7512 | 11 | ▲ up 1066 · +22% births |
| 2023 | #8578 | 9 | ▼ down 2836 · -44% births |
| 2022 | #5742 | 16 | ▲ up 1618 · +45% births |
| 2021 | #7360 | 11 | ▼ down 657 · -8% births |
| 2020 | #6703 | 12 | ▲ up 474 · +9% births |
| 2015 | #7177 | 11 | ▲ up 1149 · +22% births |
| 2010 | #8326 | 9 | ▼ down 4067 · -57% births |
| 2005 | #4259 | 21 | ▼ down 404 |
| 2000 | #3855 | 21 | ▲ up 4349 · +250% births |
| 1995 | #8204 | 6 | ▼ down 2646 · -14% births |
| 1985 | #5558 | 7 | — |
The story of Kartik
Kartik is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1973. With 438 total births recorded, Kartik remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5558 in 1985, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #8578 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Kartik in 2000:
Kartik by decade
Kartik peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 13 | |
| 1980s | 44 | |
| 1990s | 101 | |
| 2000s ★ | 169 | |
| 2010s | 99 | |
| 2020s | 33 | |
💎Kartik has only 438 total recorded births since 1973 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Kartik?
What names sound and feel like Kartik?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kartik also consider these
How is Kartik written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Kartik?
Common questions about the name Kartik
What does the name Kartik mean?
Kartik means "Son of Lord Shiva, A star, One who is bright as the stars." — a name rooted in India 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 Kartik?
Kartik is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy 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 Kartik?
Kartik originates from India tradition. India names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Kartik a common or rare name?
Kartik is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Kartik?
Kartik naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.