A person’s name is probably the most important identity one’s got. Even though we don’t get to choose what our family names us, it surely plays a vital role in our lives. People might say, “what’s in a name?” But when your name is Karen, you know exactly what’s coming for you.
The name “Karen” has a controversy of its own, something we netizens are well aware of. Thus, due to the very same reason, it looks like people don’t want to name their daughters “Karen” anymore.
The Name, “Karen” Plummets in Popularity.
There was a time, particularly in the 1950s-60s, when the name “Karen,” was one of the most popular names given to newborn babies. It is usually a short form of the name “Katherine”. However, it’s not the same case anymore as recently the name has plummeted in popularity.
According to Social Security Administration, in 2020, the name “Karen” dropped a whopping 171 spots as the most popular girl’s name. It now sits at the 831st spot in the chart.
Who is “Karen”?
The internet culture has a lot to blame for people not wanting to name their daughters “Karen” anymore. For the name is not what it previously used to represent. In today’s world, the name is a meme that represents a woman, usually Caucasian, who uses their privilege to demand their way.
Women are called “Karen” when they’re seemingly being unreasonable, complaining over the tiniest things that are beyond the scope of what is normal. Karen, according to Kansas State University professor Heather Suzanne Woods “demands the world exist according to her standards with little regard for others and she is willing to risk or demean others to achieve her ends”.
Kate Gosselin, an American TV personality is usually the face used to depict the name. She has short, usually blonde bob hair. And she uses her privilege to get things her way. So, if you’re thinking of naming your daughter “Karen,” think again.
