How common is the Charles surname?

There are approximately 2,000,000 people with the surname Charles in the United States.

Are there Charles soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 1,916 soldiers with the Charles surname appear in Civil War records.

Charles

Q: What does the surname Charles mean?

The surname Charles means "Derived from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man' or 'man'.". It is of Germanic origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Derived from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man' or 'man'.

Etymology

The surname Charles originates from the Germanic personal name Karl, which became Carolus in Latin and Charles in French. It became a hereditary surname when passed down through generations, particularly among nobility.

About the Charles Surname

Charles is one of the most common surnames in the Western world, derived from a royal Germanic personal name. It has been borne by numerous historical figures, including multiple European monarchs.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 2,000,000 bearers in the United States #27 most common surname

Rare Common

Widespread throughout English-speaking countries, France, and other European regions.

Charles Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Charles Surname

N.B. Charles

Honorable

Quick Facts

Origin: Germanic
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: Medieval Europe
Estimated Bearers: 2,000,000

War Records

1,916 soldiers with the Charles surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →