Charlotte
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Charlotte
Charlotte, which has 9 letters and 3 syllables, is a female name of French origin.
Meaning of Charlotte
Feminine
The name Charlotte is a feminine name of French origin meaning "free man" or "petite".
| Meaning | Feminine |
| Origin | French |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #4 in 2024 Steady |
| Rarity (US) | Very Popular (Top 10) |
| Era | Modern (peaked 2021) |
Background & History of The Name Charlotte
The name Charlotte is a feminine given name with both English and French origins. It is derived from the French feminine form of Charles, which was originally a Germanic name meaning "free man" or "manly." Charles has been a popular name throughout history, especially among European royalty. The name Charlotte gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the 18th century and has remained a classic choice for parents ever since.
One significant historical figure associated with the name Charlotte is Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, who became the Queen consort of King George III of the United Kingdom in 1761. Her marriage to the King brought the name Charlotte into the spotlight, leading to its increased usage among the British aristocracy. Queen Charlotte was known for her intelligence, kindness, and cultural influence.
In more recent years, the name Charlotte has seen a resurgence in popularity, particularly in the United States and Europe. This can be attributed, in part, to the influence of popular culture. For example, many parents may have been inspired by the character Charlotte York Goldenblatt from the television show and movie series "Sex and the City," portrayed by actress Kristin Davis.
The name Charlotte has a timeless and elegant quality to it, which has contributed to its enduring popularity. It evokes a sense of sophistication and femininity, while also maintaining a sense of strength and independence. Charlotte also lends itself to a variety of nicknames, such as Charlie, Lottie, or Char, providing flexibility in personalization.
Overall, Charlotte is a name with rich historical significance and a timeless appeal, making it a popular choice for parents seeking a classic and beautiful name for their daughters.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Charlotte over the years.
Similar French Baby Names
Check Initials
See what initials Charlotte would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Charlotte.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account