The Name ‘Karen’ Reaches Lowest Popularity For New Babies Since 1927

Now associated with middle-aged white women who act entitled or demanding, the name “Karen” is no longer as prevalent among new parents. In fact, the name dropped 171 spots over the last year.

Reaching its lowest ranking since 1927, the name Karen dropped from number 660 on 2019’s list of most popular baby names all the way down to 831 for 2020. Only 325 babies received the name last year, compared to 439 the year before.

The use of the name Karen has been in steady decline since the mid-1960s. It reached its peak in 1965 when 33,000 babies were given the moniker. 

According to TMZ, the severe dropoff is probably partly attributed to the negative connotation the name now carries. It’s no surprise that new parents wouldn’t want to place that burden on their newborn. 

Absent Karen, the top three baby girl names for 2020 were Olivia, Emma, and Ava. For the boys, the top three were Liam, Noah, and Oliver.