Declining since 1989, #4,539 for boys today.
Popularity of Chaz since 1974
Babies named Chaz per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 204 |
| 1980s | 2,716 |
| 1990s | 3,359 |
| 2000s | 2,166 |
| 2010s | 1,162 |
| 2020s | 302 |
Meaning & origin
Chaz first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1974, a relatively recent entry compared to traditional names. It reached its peak popularity in 1988, a period when short, punchy nicknames were in vogue. Since 1989, its usage has been declining, and by 2025 it ranked 4,539th with only about 1 in 77,640 newborns receiving the name. The name has not concentrated in any particular state, indicating a broad but shallow distribution. Chaz remains a recognizable but uncommon choice, often associated with a modern, cool demeanor.
Chaz originated as a diminutive of Charles, which derives from the Germanic name Karl, meaning "free man." The name Charles was brought to England by the Normans and became a royal name, leading to various nicknames like Charlie and Chaz. Chaz emerged as a distinct given name in the mid-20th century, particularly in American English, and sometimes serves as a short form of Charles or as an independent name.
Where Chaz is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Chazzy
Sibling names for Chaz
Names that share Chaz's style, for a brother or sister.
