Meaning: Carlos is the Spanish form of Charles, meaning “free man” or “manly.”

Origin: The name Carlos has Germanic origins, coming from the Old German name Karl, but it’s most closely associated with Spanish and Portuguese-speaking cultures.

Popularity: Carlos has been consistently popular in Spanish-speaking countries and communities. In the United States, it saw increased usage from the 1950s through the early 2000s.

Inspiration: Parents might choose Carlos for its strong meaning, its connection to Hispanic heritage, or to honor a family member. It’s also associated with notable figures like Carlos Santana.