Karan
2025 SSA
Below 5 births
About Karan
Karan is a multicultural masculine name with rich significance across several traditions. In Indian culture, it derives from Sanskrit meaning 'maker' or 'doer,' associated with someone who accomplishes great things. The name appears in Hindu mythology as a notable character in the Mahabharata. In Celtic traditions, Karan relates to 'caru' meaning 'to love,' suggesting someone caring and compassionate. The name has risen in popularity as a cross-cultural choice that works well internationally. Its short, strong sound pattern makes it accessible across languages while maintaining its distinctive character. In Western countries, it sometimes serves as a masculine variant of Karen, though its primary usage and origins remain separate from this association.
Karan for girls
Karan as a feminine name has multiple cultural origins. In Hindi, it's primarily masculine, meaning 'helper' or 'one who acts,' but has been adapted as a feminine name in Western contexts. It may also represent a variation of Karen, derived from Katherine, meaning 'pure.' In Irish tradition, Ciarán (sometimes anglicized as Karan) means 'little dark one.' The name's simplicity and cross-cultural presence give it versatility, while its familiar sound pattern makes it accessible despite its relative rarity for girls. Most common in Indian diaspora communities and occasionally in English-speaking countries, Karan represents a straightforward yet distinctive choice that bridges multiple cultural traditions while maintaining a contemporary feel.
Pronounced KAR-un.
As of October 2026, Karan ranked #7005 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #1332 in 1995.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank · boys | Births · boys | US rank · girls | Births · girls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | #4,973 | 19 | — | 0 |
| 2015 | #4,350 | 23 | — | 0 |
| 2016 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2017 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2018 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2019 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2020 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2021 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2022 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2023 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2024 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2025 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
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Karan on lists
Famous Karans
- Karan CaseyGirl
Irish folk singer of band Solas
- Donna KaranGirl
American fashion designer