Declining since 2012, #4,707 for boys today.
Popularity of Karlos since 1942
Babies named Karlos per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2005, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Karlos's real moment was 1974.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 5 |
| 1950s | 45 |
| 1960s | 93 |
| 1970s | 311 |
| 1980s | 279 |
| 1990s | 292 |
| 2000s | 435 |
| 2010s | 382 |
| 2020s | 176 |
Meaning & origin
Karlos represents a Spanish-influenced spelling of Carlos, a name with deep European roots. Its rank of 4,707 in 2025 places it among less common choices, appreciated by families seeking a distinctive yet traditional name. The name's peak popularity occurred in 1974, and since 2012 its use has been falling, making it a rare pick today. In 2025, roughly 1 in 81,337 boys received the name, and it saw notable use in California. While Karlos is not a revival name from the 1970s, its consistent if low-level usage reflects the enduring appeal of the Carlos family across Spanish-speaking communities.
Karlos is a variant spelling of Carlos, the Spanish and Portuguese form of the Germanic name Karl, derived from the Old High German word 'karal' meaning 'free man'. The name Charles was borne by numerous European royals and saints, and its Spanish form Carlos became widespread in the Hispanic world. The 'K' spelling, less common in English, reflects a direct adoption of the Spanish form.
Where Karlos is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Karl, Karly
Sibling names for Karlos
Names that share Karlos's style, for a brother or sister.
