Karlsen

Scandinavian
"Carl's son"

Karlsen Origin and Meaning

The name Karlsen is a boy's name.

Karlsen is a Scandinavian patronymic surname that has occasionally transitioned into use as a given name. It literally means 'son of Karl,' with Karl itself deriving from the Old Norse term for 'free man' or 'man.' Common throughout Norway, Denmark, and other Nordic countries as a family name, Karlsen carries strong associations with Scandinavian heritage and cultural traditions. As a first name, it remains relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. The name projects strength and Nordic heritage, appealing to parents seeking a connection to Scandinavian ancestry. Karlsen has a crisp, masculine sound with straightforward pronunciation, making it accessible despite its relative rarity in given name usage.