Charles: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days are traditional European customs celebrating the saint or feast day associated with a given name, offering an alternative celebration to a birthday. The name Charles is an enduring classic, deeply rooted in history and maintaining significant popularity worldwide, particularly in the United States. Originating from the Germanic word for "free man," it carries a sophisticated and strong mood, reflecting a regal yet fundamental masculine identity. This traditionally masculine name is celebrated across various dates internationally, including popular observance on November 4th in the USA. Charles is a name that balances deep historical context with a timeless, formal appeal.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Charles's name day is celebrated
on March 2 in France,
April 27 in Norway,
November 4 in France and the USA and
December 1 in Austria.
Charles Global History and Usage
Charles is a name with deep historical roots, maintaining significant popularity globally, especially throughout Europe and the Anglosphere. In the USA, it has been a consistently classic choice, frequently ranking highly throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, and remains a familiar favorite today. The name's widespread usage is bolstered by historical royal and noble figures across various European nations. It is commonly found in many Western languages, adapting slightly in spelling while retaining its core identity. Its history ensures it is perceived as a distinguished and established given name worldwide.
Origin and Meaning of Charles
The name Charles ultimately derives from the Germanic name Karl, rooted in the Old High German word *karal*. This root essentially translates to "free man" or "man," distinguishing a common person from a person of nobility. While early adoption was tied to powerful historical figures, the core meaning remains humble yet powerful—a definitive term for a male individual. Its journey through Latin, *Carolus*, cemented its form in Western Europe and ensured its broad adoption. Over time, its simple, fundamental meaning has contributed to its longevity and adaptation across cultures.
Charles Gender Classification Worldwide
Charles is overwhelmingly classified as a traditional masculine given name across the globe, with an extensive history of male usage. There are virtually no common examples where Charles is used for a female identifying person in the Anglosphere or Francophone regions. Related feminine forms exist, most notably Charlotte, which is extremely popular and shares the same root. While it maintains its strong male identity, it is occasionally utilized as a middle name for any gender in modern experimental naming conventions. Historically and conventionally, Charles remains one of the most distinctly male European names.
Mood Tone and Personality Vibe
The name Charles immediately projects a mood of strength, classic refinement, and dignity. It carries a distinctly elegant tone, often associated with tradition and established excellence rather than trendy newness. The vibe is serious and dependable, evoking images of a reliable and honorable character in the public sphere. It avoids being overly playful or rustic, settling instead for a powerful, sophisticated cadence. This timeless quality ensures the name feels weighty and substantial in any era.
Charles Bridge - a historic landmark in Prague
Did you know that this name is also a famous bridge? That’s right—Charles isn’t just a classic given name; it’s also the name of the legendary Charles Bridge in Prague! This stunning medieval stone bridge, built in the 14th century, connects the Old Town with Prague Castle and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Lined with impressive statues and always buzzing with street artists, musicians, and tourists, it’s a place where history meets lively charm. Just like the name Charles has stood the test of time, so has this bridge, carrying countless footsteps for over 600 years. So, whether you meet a Charles or walk across one, you know you’re in good company!
A Perfectly Balanced Name with Unique Letters: Charles
An isogrammic name is a unique type of name where no letter appears more than once. This characteristic makes it visually and structurally distinct, adding to its appeal. Such names are relatively rare, especially those with six or more letters, making them stand out even more. Having an isogrammic name gives it a balanced and harmonious look, making it a special choice.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Charles
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 3 – The Communicator.
Keywords: Creativity, joy, social expression, charisma, inspiration.
Positive Traits: Artistic, optimistic, outgoing, charming, entertaining.
Challenges: Can be superficial, scattered, or struggle with focus and discipline.
Life Path Meaning: A life of creative expression, communication, and optimism.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 22 - The Master. Builder
Powerful leader, great at turning dreams into reality.
Can be under extreme pressure or struggle with big expectations.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Jupiter - Expansion, Luck, Wisdom.
Jupiter is the planet of abundance, wisdom, and higher learning. Names ruled by Jupiter are often linked to individuals with a strong sense of optimism, generosity, and a love for adventure. These names carry a vibration of success, good fortune, and the pursuit of knowledge. People with Jupiter-ruled names often have a philosophical mindset and a natural ability to inspire others.
Name days: Name Charles
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 France | March | 2 | Charles |
 Norway | April | 27 | Charles, Charlotte, Lotte |
| France | November | 4 | Aymeric, Charles, Jessé |
 USA | November | 4 | Amory, Cara, Carl, Carla, Carley, Carlo, Carlos, Carly, Carol, Carolina, Caroline, Carolyn, Carrie, Carroll, Charles, Charlie, Chaz, Chuck, Emery, Karl, Karla, Karlee, Karli, Karly |
 Austria | December | 1 | Blanka, Charles, Eligius, Natalie |
Charles A Classic and Strong Name
Charles remains a profoundly classic and masculine name known for its widespread historical usage and elegant, strong mood. Derived from the Old High German term for "free man," its etymology reflects a fundamental identity of independence and status. The name's enduring popularity across the USA and Europe affirms its status as a consistently reliable choice. Those bearing the name Charles have multiple opportunities for recognition through name days, observed on diverse dates such as March 2nd and November 4th in France, April 27th in Norway, and December 1st in Austria. Overall, Charles stands as a historically significant, dignified, and universally understood name.
When Is Your Name Day?
Discover your name day quickly and easily with our name day search tool. Simply enter your name in the search box below, and you'll instantly see the exact date of your name day celebration. Find out when to celebrate and never miss a special occasion!
