MallowbyNames

Charlis

SHAR-lis · Of uncertain origin; possibly a variant of Charles or a feminine form of Charles.

Peak popularity
1927
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Charlis since 1920

Babies named Charlis per year in U.S. Social Security records.

358192019602000Most births 1927GirlsBoys
GirlsBoys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirlsBoys
1920s053
1930s018
1940s175
1950s521
1960s00
1970s05
1980s00
1990s00
2000s00
2010s00
2020s00

Meaning & origin

The name Charlis is a rare variant of Charles, first recorded in the United States in 1920. Its peak year of usage was 1927, but it has never entered the top 1000 names. The trajectory has been stable but very low over the decades, with no significant revival. While its origin is uncertain, it is most likely an English variant of Charles, possibly influenced by feminine forms. The name has not been associated with any top states, reflecting its sporadic usage. For parents seeking an uncommon name with classic roots, Charlis offers a distinct alternative to more popular Charles variants.

Charlis appears to be a variant of Charles, which derives from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man'. The name Carl was Latinized as Carolus, and the French form Charles was introduced to England by the Normans. Charlis may also be a feminine variant of Charles, though it is rare and has historically been used for boys. Its usage peaked in the 1920s, particularly in 1927, but it remains uncommon.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Charlie, Char

Variants: Charles, Carlos, Charlies, Charley

Sibling names for Charlis

Names that share Charlis's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

C is for Charlis, our favorite little boy.

C is for Charlis…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Charlis's letter becomes Charlis's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Charlis's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Charlis mean?
The meaning of Charlis is uncertain. It is likely a variant of Charles, which means 'free man', or a feminine form of Charles.
How popular is the name Charlis currently?
Charlis is not currently ranked in the top 1000 names in the United States as of 2025, based on Social Security data.
Is Charlis a boy's or girl's name?
Historically, Charlis has been used predominantly for boys, though it is sometimes considered a feminine variant of Charles.