Karen
/ˈkɛr.ən/noun
A feminine given name, also used in modern slang for an entitled or excessively demanding person.
Did you know?The name’s ultimate origin is debated: its traditional link to Greek katharos, “pure,” is influential but not considered certain by all scholars.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Aikaterinē
“The ancient form underlying Katherine; its original etymology is uncertain, though later tradition associated it with katharos, “pure.””
Late Antiquity
Latin
Catharina
“Latin form of the Christian saint’s name, used in the cult of Saint Catherine of Alexandria.”
Medieval Europe
Old French
Katerine
“A medieval French form of Katherine, spread widely through Christian naming traditions.”
16th Century
Danish/Norwegian
Karen
“A Scandinavian short form of Katherine.”
20th Century
English
Karen
“An established English feminine given name, especially common in the United States during the mid-20th century.”
21st Century
English
Karen
“Internet and colloquial slang for a person—stereotypically a white woman—seen as entitled, demanding, or seeking manager or institutional intervention.”