Chaz is a unique and distinctive name of American origin. It is essentially a diminutive form of Charles, which is derived from the Germanic nameKarlus. The name Charles means "free man" or "strong". Therefore, Chaz also carries this strong and independent meaning.
The use of Chaz as an independent given name is not very common, but it has been used by some notable individuals in recent history. For instance, American actor Chazz Palminteri is one such example. Born as Calogero Joseph Palminteri, he adopted the nickname "Chazz" early on and later shortened it to Chaz.
While Chaz is not a traditional name with a long historical lineage like many others, its unique sound and meaning make it an attractive choice for parents looking for something different for their child. It also has the advantage of being easily recognizable as a short form of Charles, making it familiar yet distinct. Overall, Chaz is a name that carries a strong and independent spirit, fitting for those who wish to stand out from the crowd.
The name "Chaz" has seen a significant amount of popularity and variation in its usage over the past few decades in the United States. Between 1974 and 2022, there were a total of 9,839 babies named Chaz born in the U.S.
The height of this popularity occurred between 1987 and 1991, during which time over 500 births were recorded each year. The peak was reached in 1990 with 485 births that year alone.
However, after 1992, the number of babies named Chaz began to decrease steadily. By 2018, this number had fallen below 100 births per year and continues to decline, reaching a low of 39 births in 2023.
Despite its current declining trend, "Chaz" remains a unique and timeless name that has been chosen for thousands of children over the years. Its usage reflects the ever-changing landscape of naming trends in the United States.