Carlos

Carlos is a male given name of Spanish and Portuguese origin. It derives from the Latin name Carolus, which itself comes from the Germanic Karl, commonly interpreted as “free man” or “man.” In Spanish and Portuguese-speaking contexts, the name has been widely used since the Middle Ages and remains common today.

The name is widespread in Spain, Mexico, most of Latin America, and in Brazil; it is also used in other countries with Iberian influence. Variants include Carlo (Italian), Karl (Germanic), and Charles (English).

Diminutives and nicknames include Carlitos in Spanish and Carlito in Portuguese. In English-speaking contexts, related forms include Charlie or Chuck.

Notable people named Carlos include Carlos Slim Helú, Mexican businessman; Carlos Ghosn, Brazilian-French executive; Carlos Santana, Mexican-American guitarist; Carlos Tevez, Argentine footballer; and Carlos Acosta, Cuban ballet dancer. The name is also common in fiction and public life, reflecting its widespread use across Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking cultures.