Girl Name · Danish Origin
Karen
Last reviewed: June 2026
Karen is a girl baby name of Danish origin, meaning "Pure". It currently sits in the Top 100 tier of US baby names for 2026, and parents who love Karen often also consider Kareen.
Names like Karen
- Kareen — meaning, origin and popularity
- Kyren — meaning, origin and popularity
- Keren — meaning, origin and popularity
- Koren — meaning, origin and popularity
- Karim — meaning, origin and popularity
- Karon — meaning, origin and popularity
- Karin — meaning, origin and popularity
- Karyn — meaning, origin and popularity
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Frequently asked about Karen
What does the name Karen mean?
Karen means "Pure" and is of Danish origin.
What is the origin of Karen?
Karen originates in Danish naming tradition. Names of Danish origin often share recognizable sounds and cultural roots that shape how the name reads today.
How do you pronounce Karen?
Karen has 5 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable. Tap the pronunciation player on this page to hear it spoken aloud.
Is Karen a boy's or girl's name?
Karen is primarily used as a girl's name in US records, though usage can vary by region and era.
How popular is Karen in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Karen sits in the Top 100 tier — a widely-loved, instantly-recognizable pick.
What names are similar to Karen?
Names that share Karen's sound and style include Kareen, Kyren, Keren, Koren, Karim. Open the "Names like Karen" rail on this page for the full list.