Karlsen

Karlsen is a surname of Norwegian origin. It is a patronymic name, meaning it is derived from the given name of a father. The "Karl" part of the name is an old Norse given name meaning "free man" or "man." The "-sen" ending is a common Norwegian suffix meaning "son of." Therefore, Karlsen literally translates to "son of Karl."

The surname Karlsen is most prevalent in Norway, where it is among the most common surnames. It can also be found in other Scandinavian countries and in diaspora communities with Norwegian heritage, such as in the United States and Canada. Variations of the name may exist due to different spellings or linguistic adaptations over time.

While the surname itself is common, notable individuals bearing the name Karlsen have contributed to various fields. These include individuals in politics, sports, arts, and sciences. Information about specific prominent Karlsens can be found in biographical dictionaries and historical records. The distribution and frequency of the surname often reflect historical migration patterns of Norwegian populations. Genealogical research can trace the lineage of Karlsen families back through generations.