Karlis
Also spelled: Karl, Charles, Carlos, Carlo, Karel
Karlis · Charles (English) · Karl (German, Scandinavian) · Carlos (Spanish, Portuguese) · Carlo (Italian) · Karel (Czech, Dutch)
Pronunciation: KAHR-lees
Vintage NamesMeaning
Free man
Origin
Germanic
The Story Behind Karlis
Karlis is the Latvian form of the Germanic name Karl. The name Karl itself derives from the Old High German word 'karal' or 'karl', meaning 'free man' or 'man'. It gained significant popularity throughout Europe due to the fame of Charlemagne (Charles the Great), whose name is a Latinized form of Karl. In Latvia, Karlis has been a traditional and widely used male given name for centuries, reflecting its deep roots in European naming conventions.
The name's journey into Latvian culture likely occurred through historical and cultural exchanges with Germanic-speaking regions. Over time, it became fully integrated into the Latvian language, adopting the characteristic '-is' ending for male names. Its enduring popularity in Latvia speaks to its classic appeal and the cultural significance of its meaning.
Popularity & Trends
Popularity Trends
Is Karlis Right for Your Baby?
Karlis is a Strong, Classic name for boys that suits parents looking for something with character. Most people will pronounce it correctly on the first try.
Regions Where Karlis Is Used
Name Vibe
Famous People Named Karlis
- Kārlis Ulmanis (1877–1942), former President and Prime Minister of Latvia
- Kārlis Skrastiņš (1974–2011), Latvian ice hockey player
- Kārlis Lācis (born 1977), Latvian composer and pianist
- Kārlis Mīlenbahs (1853–1916), Latvian linguist and lexicographer
Karlis in different fonts
Sibling Name Style
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Related Names
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Frequently Asked Questions About Karlis
What does Karlis mean?
Karlis means "Free man". It is derived from Germanic.
What is the origin of Karlis?
Karlis originates from Old High German. Its cultural origin is Germanic.
Is Karlis a male or female name?
Karlis is a male name.
How do you pronounce Karlis?
Karlis is pronounced "KAHR-lees".
What language does Karlis come from?
Karlis comes from Old High German.
Is Karlis a popular name?
Karlis is considered a uncommon name, and its popularity trend is stable.
What are variants of Karlis?
Variants of Karlis include Karl, Charles, Carlos, Carlo, Karel.
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