Charlene - Name Meaning, Origin and History

Charlene is a name of Germanic origin, derived from the name Karl, meaning "free man" or "free woman." Historically, it evolved from the male name Charles, which became popular in various forms across Europe. The name Charlene gained prominence in the English-speaking world in the 20th century, often used as a feminine variant of Charles. It has no specific religious or mythological associations but is commonly used in Christian contexts. Notable bearers include Charlene, Princess of Monaco, and Charlene Tilton, an American actress. The name is versatile, used in various cultures and languages, with variations like Charlène in French and Sharlene in English. Charlene is predominantly a female name, though it can occasionally be used for males. Its popularity peaked in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s but has since declined. Regionally, it remains more common in English-speaking countries. In contemporary usage, Charlene is often paired with sibling names like Charles, Charlotte, or Caroline. Individuals named Charlene are often described as independent, strong-willed, and charismatic.