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Karyn Girl

Popularity: #943 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: KAR-in //ˈkɛərɪn//

Origin: English; Irish

Meaning: English: Pure; Irish: Little and dark

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Karyn is a variant of the name Karen, which has its roots in the Danish name Karin, a diminutive form of the name Katherine. The name Katherine itself originates from the Greek name Aikaterine, which is believed to derive from the Greek word "katharos," meaning "pure." This etymological journey reflects a transition from Greek to Latin, where it became Catharina, and then to Old French as Catherine, before evolving into various forms in different languages, including Karen in Scandinavian contexts and Karyn in English-speaking regions.

Historically, the name Katherine has been borne by numerous notable figures, including Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a Christian martyr from the 4th century, who is often associated with wisdom and learning. Her legacy contributed to the name's popularity in medieval Europe, particularly in the Christian tradition.

The name Katherine appeared in various forms across different cultures, and its variants have been used in significant literary works, including Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales" in the 14th century, which helped to solidify its presence in English literature. Culturally, the name Karyn, as a derivative of Karen, carries associations of purity and virtue, reflecting its Greek origins.

The name has been embraced in various contexts, often symbolizing strength and resilience. Additionally, the diminutive form Karen has been widely used in various cultures, further embedding the name's significance in societal narratives.

The evolution of Karyn from its historical roots illustrates the dynamic nature of names and their ability to adapt while retaining connections to their original meanings.

Famous people named Karyn

Karyn Parsons is an actress best known for The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Major Payne, and The Job.

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U.S. Historical Usage

The name Karyn was first seen in the United States in 1932.

Karyn has ranked as high as #636 nationally, which occurred in 1964, and has been most popular in California, New York, Illinois, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.

In the past 5 years the name Karyn has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Karyn (2016)

State Births Share
CA 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19326
19379
193819
193921
194025
194133
194271
194353
194464
194582
194699
1947188
1948176
1949176
1950206
1951173
1952138
1953153
1954156
1955151
1956208
1957220
1958221
1959230
1960242
1961255
1962415
1963539
1964607
1965510
1966417
1967436
1968463
1969427
1970460
1971484
1972384
1973378
1974342
1975340
1976329
1977372
1978307
1979275
1980281
1981213
1982167
1983187
1984123
1985151
1986130
1987148
1988144
1989166
1990145
1991127
1992119
1993104
1994104
199580
199667
199762
199873
199958
200068
200146
200247
200342
200442
200535
200643
200727
200836
200938
201027
201123
201224
201317
201417
201510
201619
201723
201812
201913
202010
20247