Charlotte

GirlFrench#3 in 2025

Meaning

Free woman, petite

Popularity

Ranked #3 for girls in 2025

Based on Social Security Administration data

Similar Girl Names Starting with C

More French Names

About the Name Charlotte

Charlotte is a beautiful French girl name that means “Free woman, petite”. This name has been consistently popular among parents looking for a name for their daughter.

Charlotte is the French feminine form of Charles, derived from the Germanic name Karl meaning 'free man.' The name gained royal associations through Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, wife of King George III. It has experienced renewed popularity in the 21st century, partly influenced by the birth of Princess Charlotte of Cambridge in 2015.

Personality Traits Associated with Charlotte

Charlottes are often described as feminine yet strong, elegant yet down-to-earth. The name suggests sophistication and intelligence combined with warmth and approachability. Those named Charlotte often display both classic grace and modern independence.

Famous People Named Charlotte

  • Charlotte Bronte - Celebrated Victorian novelist
  • Princess Charlotte of Cambridge - British royal
  • Charlotte Gainsbourg - French-British actress and singer
  • Charlotte Church - Welsh singer
  • Charlotte Rampling - British actress

Nicknames for Charlotte

CharlieLottieCharCarlyLola

Cultural Significance of Charlotte

Charlotte has strong literary connections, most notably through Charlotte Bronte and her masterwork 'Jane Eyre.' The name represents the feminine form of Charles, connecting it to a lineage of kings and emperors throughout European history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Charlotte

What does the name Charlotte mean?

The name Charlotte means “Free woman, petite”. It is of French origin and is traditionally used as a girl name.

How popular is the name Charlotte?

Charlotte is ranked #3 in popularity for girl names in the United States. It is one of the most popular names currently.

Is Charlotte a boy or girl name?

Charlotte is traditionally a girl name. While names can be used for any gender, Charlotte is most commonly given to girls.

What are common nicknames for Charlotte?

Common nicknames for Charlotte include Charlie, Lottie, Char, and Carly. These shortened forms provide casual alternatives while maintaining the essence of the full name.

Pregnancy Resources

Track your pregnancy week-by-week and learn what to expect at each stage of your journey:

Pregnancy week-by-week guide →