In France, an old boy’s first name is making headlines in the latest first name tables published for 2026. Highlighted by Stéphanie Rapoport, author of
The Official First Names 2026 by Éditions First, it ticks all the boxes of the moment: short, easy to say, international and carrying a powerful meaning, that of strength.
This first name is Charlie. For Stéphanie Rapoport, “This first name, formerly given to boys, is skyrocketing and becoming a must-have for little girls.“, she explains. She also notes that “In 2026, certain classic first names will disappear from the ranking. This is the case of Camille, who has served her time and should be much less attributed“, assures Stéphanie Rapoport.
Charlie, the mixed first name that is shaking up the top women’s list
On the popularity curves, “The first name Charlie is at the gates of the female ranking“, announces the expert. In the projections of The Official First Namesit comes close to the Top 20 and tickles Julia, installed in 20th place. Concretely, Charlie clearly leaves the boy register to become a real mixed first name for girls.
This breakthrough comes at the right time. Stéphanie Rapoport already recalled that short first names dominated births, and that the fashion for -i endings is returning with first names like Romy. Charlie is part of this wave, just like the mixed first names Gabriel, Raphaël or Noah, very present among girls while remaining sure values among boys.
First name Charlie: 2024 figures which prove the shift
The data cited by The Official First Names are very telling. In 2024, nearly 1,700 little girls had the first name Charlie, compared to 940 boys. This simple difference shows that today it is almost twice as much given to girls. For a first name that was still perceived as masculine until recently, the shift is clear.
In this context, neutral first names are gaining ground. According to these forecasts for 2026, mixed first names are experiencing a real comeback, with Eden considered the most popular mixed first name and 14% of choices among girls. Charlie slips into this same vein, symbol of a more open identity for the coming generation.
Origin of Charlie: a “strong” meaning that reassures parents
In terms of meaning, the name Charlie has solid roots. It comes from the German karl and means “strong“, in reference to robustness. Derived from Charlotte, it appeals to parents who are looking for an affectionate first name with a sweet sound, while sending a message of strength of mind and character.
Stéphanie Rapoport, however, reminds us that the choice of a first name should not be taken lightly and that “a first name is for life”, she insists. For her, following fashion is not a fault: “It is better to opt for a safe first name. Your child will be even more delighted as he grows up“, she concludes. Charlie seems to tick this trendy but reassuring box.