Carlos is a name of Spanish origin, derived from the Germanic name Carl. The meaning of Carlos is "freeholder" or "strong," which refers to someone who owns land or has power and influence. This name has been popular throughout history, particularly among royalty and nobility in Spain.
The name Carlos first gained prominence during the medieval period when it was used by several Spanish monarchs. One of the most famous Carls was King Carlos I of Spain, who ruled from 1516 to 1556. He was also known as Emperor Charles V of the Holy Roman Empire and is considered one of the most powerful rulers in history.
Over time, the name Carlos has become associated with various historical figures and cultural icons. In literature, it is famously borne by the protagonist of Prosper Merimée's novella "Carmen," which inspired the opera of the same name by Georges Bizet. Additionally, several notable individuals throughout history have been named Carlos, including Brazilian footballer Pelé (full name: Edson Arantes do Nascimento) and Mexican singer-songwriter Carlos Santana.
Today, Carlos remains a popular choice for parents seeking a classic yet unique name for their sons. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to its rich historical significance, strong meaning, and timeless sound. Whether you're drawn to the name's royal connections or simply appreciate its powerful connotation, choosing Carlos as your baby boy's name is sure to bestow him with a strong and memorable moniker.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Carlos has seen a varied trend of popularity over the years in the United States.
The name's peak popularity occurred during the late 1970s to early 1980s, with the highest number of births recorded being 57 in 1986. This was followed by a decline in popularity throughout the mid-to-late 1980s and into the 1990s, with the lowest point reached in 1994 with only 25 births.
However, Carlos has maintained some level of popularity even after its peak, with consistent births recorded every year since 1913. The name's popularity seemed to have a resurgence in recent years, with 10 births recorded in 2018 and 5 births each in 2022 and 2023.
Overall, the name Carlos has been chosen for a total of 2040 babies born in the United States over the period of available data. This demonstrates that while its popularity has fluctuated over time, Carlos remains a name with enduring appeal among parents in the U.S.