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Origin and meaning of the name Karine

What is the origin of the name Karine?

The origin of the given name Karine can be traced back to various cultures due to its adaptations over time. In Hebrew, Karin or Karina means "pure" or "graceful." It is derived from the biblical name Miriam, which also has the meaning 'wished-for child' or 'rebellious one.' The name Miriam was also the sister of Moses and Aaron in the Old Testament. In French, Karine may be a variant of the name Caroline, which means "free man" or "strong." It is derived from Carolus, a Latinized form of the Germanic name Karl, meaning "man." In Armenian, Karine can be an adaptation of the name Mariam or Maryam, which has origins in Aramaic and Hebrew, and means "lady" or "beloved." The exact origin may depend on the specific cultural context from where it is used.

Learn more about the origin of the name Karine

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Karine

The name Karine is a feminine given name with roots traced back to Hebrew origins. The name is derived from "Karina," which is a variation of the biblical name Miriam, who was the sister of Moses and Aaron in the Old Testament. In Hebrew, Miriam means "bitter" or "rebellious," but it also signifies a woman who is raised up or exalted. Over time, the name evolved into its current form, Karine, and spread across various cultures, particularly in France and Portugal, where it gained popularity. Today, Karine is a commonly used name worldwide, valued for its unique sound and rich history.

Character traits associated with the name Karine

Karine is often perceived as a dynamic and determined individual. Her name, of French origin, is said to be derived from the word "cara" meaning dear and "ina" meaning little. These meanings suggest that Karine might possess qualities such as warmth and affection towards others. She is known for her strong will and tenacity, often taking on challenges with a persistent approach. Additionally, Karine tends to be open-minded and adaptable, embracing change and new experiences with ease. Her social circle tends to be diverse, reflecting her inclination towards understanding and appreciating different perspectives. However, it's important to remember that traits associated with a name can vary greatly among individuals who bear it, and these characteristics may not fully encapsulate the unique personality of each Karine.

Popularity of the name Karine

The name Karine, originating from the Greek and Hebrew languages, is popular among various cultures, notably in France and Brazil. In France, it peaked in popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s, ranking within the top 100 most common names for girls. Similarly, in Brazil, it has consistently been among the top 500 names given to newborn girls since the early 2000s. globally, Karine is a relatively uncommon name but is gaining popularity in certain regions due to its unique and attractive sound. In the United States, it ranked outside the top 1000 most popular names for girls in 2020, but its usage has been steadily increasing over the past decade.

Famous people with the name Karine

Karine Branson is a renowned French-Brazilian model and television personality, best known for being a contestant on France's Next Top Model in 2006. She has since appeared on various reality shows, including Dancing with the Stars France and Expedition Robinson. In Brazil, Karine Scarabot is a well-known journalist and news anchor for RecordTV. Notably, she was the first woman to cover the World Cup from inside the field of play in 2014. Another notable figure named Karine is Karine Jean-Pierre, an American political strategist who served as White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary under President Joe Biden. She has also worked for various organizations, including MoveOn.org and Emily's List.

Variations of the name Karine

Karine is primarily a female given name with origins in the Hebrew language, where it means "pure song" or "joyful singer." In different countries and cultures, various spellings and variations of this name have emerged. Some of these include Carine, Karyn, Carin, and Careen. Each variation retains the basic structure of the original name while introducing subtle changes in spelling to accommodate regional pronunciation differences or personal preference. It is also worth noting that some individuals may choose to use unconventional spellings or nicknames as a way of expressing their individuality. Regardless of the exact spelling, Karine and its variations continue to be popular choices for parents looking for a name with a beautiful meaning and a musical quality.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025

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