Carlyn
Girl name · 58 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Carlyn: 58 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 7 births in 1989.
Rooted in the Germanic name Charles, meaning “free man,” Carlyn emerged as a modern spelling variant of Carolyn or Caroline, blending the classic Carol with the popular -lyn suffix. While less common than its relatives, the name shares their enduring charm. Notable bearers include American author and illustrator Carlyn Beccia, known for her visually striking children’s biographies. No major places bear the name directly, but the similar-sounding Carlin is both a Scottish surname and a village in North Lanarkshire. Carlyn’s spelling reflects the mid-20th-century trend for feminine -lyn endings, placing it alongside Caitlyn and Evelyn, yet it retains a distinctive freshness that appeals to parents seeking a familiar but less ubiquitous choice.
Girl 14 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 19897 babies
- Latest (1997)
- #6533 babies
- Total births
- 58since 1976
- 5-year trend
- ▼ 29%vs prior 5y