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Carleen Girl

Popularity: · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationkar-LEEN / kɑːrˈliːn

English; Irish

Meaning

English: free man; Irish: little girl

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Carleen is derived from the combination of the name "Carl" and the diminutive suffix "-een," which is often used in English to create feminine forms. The name Carl has its roots in the Germanic word "karl," meaning "man" or "free man." This term evolved through various languages, including Old High German and Middle High German, before being adopted into English. The name Carl has historical significance, associated with notable figures such as Charlemagne, whose name in Latin was "Carolus Magnus," meaning "Charles the Great." The suffix "-een" is of Irish origin, often used to create affectionate or diminutive forms of names, which adds a layer of warmth to the name Carleen.

Historically, the name Carleen can be linked to the broader tradition of names derived from Charles, which have been popular across Europe since the Middle Ages. The name Charles has been borne by numerous kings and emperors, contributing to its enduring legacy. In the English-speaking world, the name gained traction in the 19th century, coinciding with the romanticization of names that evoke a sense of nobility and strength. The use of Carleen as a feminine form reflects the cultural shift towards recognizing and celebrating women's identities in their own right.

Culturally, Carleen carries connotations of strength and independence, resonating with the historical significance of its root name, Carl. The name's construction, combining a strong masculine root with a gentle feminine suffix, symbolizes a balance of power and grace. This duality has allowed Carleen to maintain a presence in various cultural narratives, often associated with characters in literature and folklore that embody these traits. Overall, Carleen represents a blend of historical depth and cultural significance, rooted in a rich linguistic heritage.

Trend Summary

Carleen has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a peak in the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Carline
  • Carlene

International Variants

  • Karleen (Dutch)
  • Carlin (Irish)

Famous people named Carleen

Carleen Anderson is a singer and songwriter best known for her work with the Brand New Heavies, as well as her solo albums like True Spirit and Angels & Ghosts.

Carleen Hawn is an actress best known for her roles in The Last Dragon, The Big Chill, and The Devil's Advocate.

Fictional characters named Carleen

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Carleen was first seen in the United States in 1908. Carleen has ranked as high as #975 nationally, which occurred in 1961, and has been most popular in California, New York, Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Carleen has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Carleen (2003)

StateBirthsShare
CA 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19086
19095
19127
19138
19146
191513
191613
191725
191816
191923
192012
192122
19229
192316
192434
192530
192636
192738
192847
192950
193046
193128
193263
193367
193466
193580
193660
193774
193870
193983
1940103
194189
194297
194399
194475
194592
1946100
1947113
1948124
1949163
1950142
1951130
1952137
1953167
1954159
1955164
1956136
1957152
1958152
1959159
1960140
1961168
1962161
1963136
1964116
1965121
1966105
1967125
1968132
1969125
1970120
197198
197292
197370
197476
197564
197664
197755
197863
197950
198050
198144
198247
198357
198450
198536
198630
198744
198836
198943
199038
199147
199254
199346
199449
199535
199630
199737
199815
199919
200035
200122
200218
200321
200413
200510
20065
200715
20089
20099
201011
201111
20125
20139
201411
20157
20167
201712
20186
20209
20225