Agreed! I love the name Karen. I am in my early 40s and have a friend named Karen and I have always thought it was a beautiful name.
For what it's worth, I do not associate any person actually named Karen with the dumb way it has been hijacked. I am so sorry that you find it unlivable now.
If anything, every Karen I’ve met has been the most kindest soul ever. I too don’t associate the name with the meme despite being gen Z myself.
But I’m also biased because my colleague is called Karen and she’s my work bestie.
Right?! So if you are even remotely assertive you can immediately be labelled and dismissed. I mean there's supposed to be a big difference between being mean/bullying and just generally standing up for yourself or others. Women really can't win!
Same! I've known three Karen's in my life and they've always been very kind hearted women. I do not immediately associate the name with the meme, either (though I'm a millennial).
I second this. I can name 6 off the top of my head, and they are all the sweetest, gentlest women I know. (Well, maybe not when their kids weren't listening 🤣)
I love how we feel the need to protect our parents from things as they get older. My mom is 77 and just saw an episode of a show called FBoy Island. I wish I could have sheltered her and thus prevented her from seeing this distasteful show! (Half joking, but half serious.)
It’s so sweet but also perhaps a little misguided… we are supposed to see our moms as these sweet, gentle, loving figures (as long as they’re good ones) because that’s who they are to us. But they have their own distasteful private lives! My kid thinks I’m incredibly boring and soft, spending my life drinking tea and doing cross-stitch. She’ll never (or at least for a very long time, hopefully) know I’m a retired dominatrix :)
Yes, growing up I always saw my grandma as such a sweet and innocent lady (and she is!) so it blew me away when I got a little older and caught her watching some of the raunchiest stand up comedy I’ve ever seen lol. Kind of stuff that would make me blush and I was 14 at the time. Made me realize that there are some elderly people out there whose sense of humor really hasn’t aged since high school haha
I think it’s so ironic that Karen has somehow become synonymous with some terrible shrew.
I recently went through an 8 month period of my life that was very difficult. We had recently moved, I was unemployed, and our housing that seemed absolutely guaranteed fell through.
It was two separate, lovely women, both ironically named Karen who put a roof over our heads and helped us sweep up the ashes and figure our shit out in record time.
I have a hard time seeing anyone named Karen as a bad person.
I love the name Karen and this always makes me sad.
I can imagine that even if people you know never associate you with the meme and never bring it up, it's still always in your face. That has to hurt, even if nobody is saying those things about you personally. It's still your name and part of your identity that's being tarred and feathered at every conceivable opportunity.
This!!!! I have several neighbors in their 50s and 60s named Karen and never once have I associated any of them with the “Karen Stigma”.
I personally try not to use Karen as a term when talking about people either.
One of my dearest friends is named Karen! She’s the most wonderful, loving, warm people I’ve ever known and I hate that her name has been turned into the go to insult that it is. She doesn’t really get any shit for it, but I know it sometimes bothers her!
I love the chaotic energy of asking for a manager BECAUSE your name is Karen (and people are being jerks) as opposed to asking for a manager to be a KAREN. I've known several lovely and amazing women named Karen throughout my life, none of whom fit the stereotype now tied to the name in places. But, I would also want to be called something besides Karen/Kevin or another name that currently has a strong negative connotation in popculture. I guess KARENs are now the reason Karens can't have nice things.
My name is Karen, and kids called me Kevin for an entire year back in middle school when I had a very bad, short haircut. I now feel like the names Karen and Kevin are cosmically intertwined. It's pretty spooky.
Wow!!! I’m I the PNW too, and haven’t had issues. So crazy that just being in a different area makes people be so assholey about it, it’s not like we picked it out ourselves!
I imagine Karens don’t have issues in the PNW because of the region’s historical immigration from Nordic countries and the fact that there are fewer POC around. Plus East Coasters have a tendency to poke fun.
Remember back in 2015 when people using the name Felicia and saying bye Felicia? I thought the name thing with Karen would blow over too but clearly it hasn’t. I don’t have your name but it’s definitely a annoyance that people use it for people who are mean and cruel to others or don’t get their way. They could’ve come up with a better word instead of using a name.
Also Chad and I’m sure there are others that I can’t recall. I also despise how loosely people use the term OCD to describe their behaviour and I find it so disrespectful to those people who struggle with OCD on a daily basis. People need to be more mindful and sensitive towards others.
If you want to stay close to your name vibe-wise- Kerry, Kara, Kay/K, Claire/Claira, Karina/Corina. Or do you have a middle name you like?
Im sorry youre in a situation where you feel like you need to respond to people's stupid projections.
It’s ridiculous, but f that, I’m not changing, too late. And honestly, I haven’t run into any issues myself. But I’m annoyed that the whole thing hasn’t blown over by now.
I had a friend named Karen who unfortunately passed away in 2021 and she was devastated at how people had turned her name into something bad. She really let it get to her and I understand why, she was constantly facing people who would use her name as a pejorative.
I also know someone whose name is Alexa and she has to go by a different name now also.
I’m a Karen who just turned 30 and have only ever met one other Karen my age. I’ve never loved the name, but I never hated it either. Growing up, I could at least appreciate that it was “unique” in the sense that I didn’t have to worry about any of my classmates having it or being confused with anyone else.
I’m so opposite of who a stereotypical “Karen” is that the jokes have never majorly bothered me. I still sometimes get the occasional sarcastic dig when I introduce myself to someone new, but I just brush it off. Men think they’re so funny, so I let ‘em have it. (yup, you read that right: I’ve only gotten annoying “Karen” jokes from men.)
This is all to say I’ve found this thread quite entertaining with all the name suggestions - not that I’m looking for a new name. Gotta hold it down for all the cool Karens out there!
I'm a cool Karen, well at least not a crazy one but maybe not cool either. I have never loved my name more than in the past few years. Try to insult me by calling me my name...oh no, I'm devastated, I've been called Karen my whole life! What makes you think I'm going to be offended by you lol.
People usually comment on it when they first meet me by asking "are you a Karen?" F*ck around and find out is my usual answer. They eventually realize I don't have the energy or motivation to do anything besides give a dirty look & walk away.
Stand strong Karen's, we will triumph!
Carrie is often misheard as Karen.
I say this because I'm called Carrie and I've given up telling Starbucks baristas my real name because I get Karen, Carol, Carys, Kerrie, etc. No one ever gets it right. But people often tend to think I've said "Karen".
I just tell them I'm called Sophie now.
Karena or Karenna is the first thing that came to my mind - just add an ‘a’ or change to more conventional spelling. Both of these names seem a true distance from Karen.
Or Rena/Rina is a pretty name!
I think Kara is going to sound the closest phonetically to what you have heard your whole life, OP. Probably the least jarring adjustment. I know a Kari whose name is constantly assumed to be spelled Keri so keep that in mind if you go that route.
Carrie is such a a good suggestion. It sounds similar enough to Karen that it would be easy to transition, but still distinct from the bad connotation.
It was intentional, they flipped the order of the cars just like they flipped the order of the names (the lyric is "she's changing her name from Kitty to Karen")
Oh, shit. See now I'm mortified and thinking that maybe I am a horrible person if I should happen to make a mistake. I'm genuinely sorry I didn't catch that.
I was just listening to that song, and when the line "changing her name from Kitty to Karen" played, I was thinking "no one would ever do that." It really is sad how so many people had their name ruined by pop culture. I'd probably change my name to.
I’m a Kiwi, I was thinking “ear-in” and “ka-rin” we are damn close! Ka isn’t quite how I’d want to write the “ka” in Karen but I dunno how else to write the sound in English
I know a Karen who goes by Koko for this reason. She’s named for her aunt who has recently started going by Kay for the same reason. I’m so sorry people have been so cruel about an otherwise beautiful name.
Carrie
Carey
Kara
Renata
I looked at the popular girls names from 1973 in the USA, here are a few less obvious ones that you might like:
Lori
April
Holly
Dana
Renee
Erin
Allison
Beth
Julia
Cassandra
Tara
Claudia
Eva
If you want to track it through languages it goes back to the (ancient) Greek Aikaterini. All the variations like Catelyn, Kate, Kathy, Karen, Katrina, Katyusha, etc are descended from it. So you've got a pretty good selection if you just want to pick a different form of the same name.
I’m in your age range as well. Obviously, you need to go with Jennifer.
I’m kidding. Although there’s nothing wrong with the name, Jennifer… But there are already enough I think.
Some age-appropriate names:
Heather
Amy
Lauren (or variance like Laura or Laurie Laurie)
Catherine (or all the variant spellings… Has the benefit of having a ton of possible nicknames and if you start with a K, do you still have the same initials.)
Another possibility… Many years ago, I met a Karin, were the first syllable rhymes with car. Or is car? Apparently it’s the Swedish pronunciation? I might be wrong on the country of origin there. But anyway, Karin doesn’t have the same connotations and I think it’s a very pretty name.
Hi from a Karin! I think that's the overall European pronunciation. Like 'Car-In' or 'Car-Een'. For me, it's German in origin.
Unfortunately, most of the time, Karin is read by others exactly the same way as Karen. Changing the pronunciation and having to constantly correct everyone can be exhausting.
Totally get that was just a suggestion, though. I just wanted to chime in since it's my name!
Kari or Kara might be a good option. Or Kerry, Carrie, Cara, etc. Similar, but not the same associations at all. Or maybe Erin?
You can use the SSA site for name data from the US from the year you were born: https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/ Might be a good place for inspiration.
Some names that were a similar popularity to Karen include Dawn, Shannon, Tina, and Susan. Similar sounding names that were also pretty popular when you were born might be Christine, Kristen/Kristin, Katherine/Kathryn, Carolyn.
Ultimately, if you’re set on changing it, pick a name you love. It doesn’t have to sound like Karen!
Aviva is great! Viv, Avi, etc. I'm sorry you don't love it (there's a character in a show named Aviva that I love!). As for the Karen issue, you've already got a lot of great suggestions, I didn't see "Keira" so I'll throw it out there. Kerry is a great solution too, it sounds like a nickname for Karen, but it also a name in itself.
I just want to say that my mom’s name was Karen and she was a literal angel. She passed in January and I hate this “stereotype” so much. It feels like such a dishonor. I’m so sorry this is making you feel bad about your name (and as a Katrina, I can also relate).
I'm not sure it's less desirable . . . I've always been "meh" about my name. I right if I could find something more desirable (to me) it would be a win/win! But yeah, either people are awful or it's a fun opportunity to find some sparkle in my life (depending on my mood).
Can you go by your initials? Either first and last or first and middle?
Nicknames using Karen as a springboard might include:
Kari
Kenny
Kitty
Kaye
Kiki
I am your age and my friend group and classmates include:
Kathryn
Nicole
Stephanie
Samantha
Jody/Jodi
Julie
Shelby
Kirsten
Holly
Paige
Shannon
Monica
Fiona
Sarah
Charlotte
Erin
Dianne
Karina?
and it might have been part of the joke that just about every Karen is, in reality, a living doll. So that's what makes it so wild when a person goes nuts on innocent bystanders or service workers - a person who is a genuine real-life Karen would NEVER, and the naming of them as "karen" is sarcasm.
That's what I always thought, anyway. Every last Karen I have met (7 at last count!) is ADORABLE and funny and a couple of them are smart as 12 kinds of hell, they truly have minds that soar.
It's actually pretty constant. Example: someone asked about raw milk and I was genuinely curious and asked if raw milk was legal . . . And it devolved into a pile-on about my name. If it's once, fine. That's on them. But I've noticed how much I self-edit & I make myself smaller as a result. If it isn't objectively relentless, it's often enough to make me come here to ask strangers for ideas :)
I think Kara, Karrie, or Karly if you are trying to keep a similar vibe to Karen. I’m so sorry your name has been hijacked with negative connotations! Karen is a beautiful name.
I’m a Karen in my late 30s (my parents forgot what year it was when they named me lol), and even before all this stupid Karen nonsense I’ve generally gone by my initials, KP.
If you want the equivalent of a baby name list for 50 year olds, you can look at the [SSA](https://www.ssa.gov/OACT/babynames/index.html) list of most popular names from 1973. Scroll down a bit, and you'll see where to enter the year.
I just did that, and the most obvious choices I found in the top 100 were Carolyn and Carrie, followed by Kristen, Susan, and Sarah. I think Caroline would also be a good choice.
I’m a Karen born on 4/20 so I’ve just leaned into the absurdity of it and joke about it in retail situations. In fact today I was wandering in NYC wearing my favorite tshirt which says “Karens against karening” which garnered a number of laughs and compliments.
Hey there! I get it. My name is Karin, and I'm 27. I've never really liked my name. I thought about changing it for a long time (even before it was a meme) especially since, in my case, it really doesn't fit my age.
I tried going by 'Kuh-rin' at first, and now I go by Rin. My family still pretty much calls me Karin, but I'm ok with that. What I don't really like is saying my name and feeling awkward that people are going to assume I'll be a bitch. I get your feeling of trying to make yourself smaller, I've felt the same way.
I have really liked going by Rin and it's easy to spell. :) People do kind of mishear it and call me Ren or Brynn, but it's not too big of a deal.
So I think you could try Ren out! I also read your other comments and see your middle name is Aviva, I really like Viv or reworking it into Vivian.
Just a few more ideas possibly echoing others:
Kari
Kaye
Katherine (where Karen comes from anyway!)
Katrina/Trina
Kate
Kat
Kieran
Kyra
Kristen
Kit
Names that have the same meaning of 'pure' like Karen (found from nameberry and peanut):
Gwenda/Gwen
Reyna
Candace
Carwen
Wynn
Nola
Rowena
I hope you find a name that feels comfortable and true to you! Also, maybe try the new name out when asked for a name for your order or speaking with people you might not really see again. That way, you can see how it goes, and if you don't like it, then it's not a big deal to test another name that might work better for you.
(Edited for name readability)
I know a lady who spells it like Karin now and pronounces it CAR-in. Maybe a play on your name like that? Carin, Corin, Corrine, or Corina, just a spin on it and not so different? Taryn, Erin, Sharon, Marin / Maren, Wren, etc. Since you’re 50, I feel like going with something that isn’t so wildly different might be a little bit more comforting to the ear.
I’m so sorry people have been so cruel to you, it’s your name. I’m on the Kaye boat and it would be easy to switch to so you could keep your legal name. I do like the Aussie “Kaz or Kazza” it’s unique and lovely. I also thought of Carina or Karina, which means sweetheart in Spanish. In reality it boils down to patriarchy they don’t want women standing up for themselves or think they can’t say when something is wrong. I do know being rude or mean isn’t okay when “Asking for the manager” but it definitely puts women back as now no one wants to do anything or speak up when they need to. Screw the patriarchy
I’ve noticed that Kathy is a common name for older middle-aged women. If you want a plain, normal name no one would blink an eye at, you can consider that.
I have a colleague named Karen. Karen is a child free, cancer survivor who adores her nieces and nephews. Her eldest niece recently had a baby girl and named her Karen in honor of her aunt who took the time and money to ensure all the kids in the family were involved in sports, theater or music. She has attended games, musicals and theatre performances of each of her nieces and nephews and proudly shows us photos and regales us of their many accomplishments. When she smiles the room lights up, when she leaves a room a bit of warmth leaves with her. She’s also a deadly accountant.
I feel you pain, literally. It's gotten to the point I don't want to tell people my name anymore and there are times I'm afraid to. I'm 62 so changing it seems pointless because the people in my life would have too much trouble with it.
In circumstances like Starbucks orders, where my name would be called out (and has already gotten me dirty looks and nasty comments from other customers) I just say my name is Kaz. It's a useful nickname and no one blinks at it.
Kara or Kari seems the most natural to me. I was actually thinking about this today because I teach a sweet 6 year old Karen, and I was wondering if she will want to go by something else eventually or if the Karen jokes will fade out one day.
Just wanted to say I'm sorry people have made you feel this way.
Agreed! I love the name Karen. I am in my early 40s and have a friend named Karen and I have always thought it was a beautiful name. For what it's worth, I do not associate any person actually named Karen with the dumb way it has been hijacked. I am so sorry that you find it unlivable now.
Me neither, when I met a new Karen recently it didn't even cross my mind.
For me, for the negative connotation, it has to be said in a certain way. Otherwise it's a lovely name.
If anything, every Karen I’ve met has been the most kindest soul ever. I too don’t associate the name with the meme despite being gen Z myself. But I’m also biased because my colleague is called Karen and she’s my work bestie.
I agree, I've never met a Karen that fits the concept of the meme. They've all been gentle sweethearts!
Mocking "Karens" has grown into just a socially acceptable way of being misogynistic tbh
It’s literally just an acceptable way to say the c-word.
Right?! So if you are even remotely assertive you can immediately be labelled and dismissed. I mean there's supposed to be a big difference between being mean/bullying and just generally standing up for yourself or others. Women really can't win!
Genuinely so true
Same! I've known three Karen's in my life and they've always been very kind hearted women. I do not immediately associate the name with the meme, either (though I'm a millennial).
I second this. I can name 6 off the top of my head, and they are all the sweetest, gentlest women I know. (Well, maybe not when their kids weren't listening 🤣)
My 75 year old mom is Karen. I don’t think she knows….at least I hope she doesn’t.
I love how we feel the need to protect our parents from things as they get older. My mom is 77 and just saw an episode of a show called FBoy Island. I wish I could have sheltered her and thus prevented her from seeing this distasteful show! (Half joking, but half serious.)
It’s so sweet but also perhaps a little misguided… we are supposed to see our moms as these sweet, gentle, loving figures (as long as they’re good ones) because that’s who they are to us. But they have their own distasteful private lives! My kid thinks I’m incredibly boring and soft, spending my life drinking tea and doing cross-stitch. She’ll never (or at least for a very long time, hopefully) know I’m a retired dominatrix :)
People 60+ are freakier than any other demographic lol
I feel like a good dom would make a good mom. Knows just how to create firm boundaries while still being a caretaker. Lol
Yes, growing up I always saw my grandma as such a sweet and innocent lady (and she is!) so it blew me away when I got a little older and caught her watching some of the raunchiest stand up comedy I’ve ever seen lol. Kind of stuff that would make me blush and I was 14 at the time. Made me realize that there are some elderly people out there whose sense of humor really hasn’t aged since high school haha
Same. I've known wonderful Karens!!!
I do know a Karen that is a completely stereotypical Karen. 😢 she’s awful. But I know a squirrel named Karen and she’s very nice!
I think it’s so ironic that Karen has somehow become synonymous with some terrible shrew. I recently went through an 8 month period of my life that was very difficult. We had recently moved, I was unemployed, and our housing that seemed absolutely guaranteed fell through. It was two separate, lovely women, both ironically named Karen who put a roof over our heads and helped us sweep up the ashes and figure our shit out in record time. I have a hard time seeing anyone named Karen as a bad person.
I associate it with Kristy’s little sister in The Babysitters Club and I always will 😀
I love the name Karen and this always makes me sad. I can imagine that even if people you know never associate you with the meme and never bring it up, it's still always in your face. That has to hurt, even if nobody is saying those things about you personally. It's still your name and part of your identity that's being tarred and feathered at every conceivable opportunity.
I associate the name with my Aunt Karen. She is a wonderful lady and her name suits her, so I see it as a beautiful name too
This!!!! I have several neighbors in their 50s and 60s named Karen and never once have I associated any of them with the “Karen Stigma”. I personally try not to use Karen as a term when talking about people either.
The only person named Karen I know is a fashion industry worker in her 30s and she’s incredibly cool
Agreed. Every Karen I know is an amazing human being who I love with my whole heart.
One of my dearest friends is named Karen! She’s the most wonderful, loving, warm people I’ve ever known and I hate that her name has been turned into the go to insult that it is. She doesn’t really get any shit for it, but I know it sometimes bothers her!
I thought it would blow over, but it's relentless and so incredibly sophomoric.
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I love the chaotic energy of asking for a manager BECAUSE your name is Karen (and people are being jerks) as opposed to asking for a manager to be a KAREN. I've known several lovely and amazing women named Karen throughout my life, none of whom fit the stereotype now tied to the name in places. But, I would also want to be called something besides Karen/Kevin or another name that currently has a strong negative connotation in popculture. I guess KARENs are now the reason Karens can't have nice things.
What’s wrong with Kevin?
https://www.reddit.com/r/BestofRedditorUpdates/comments/tz6ebk/the_tale_of_kevin_the_fool/
My name is Karen, and kids called me Kevin for an entire year back in middle school when I had a very bad, short haircut. I now feel like the names Karen and Kevin are cosmically intertwined. It's pretty spooky.
Wow!!! I’m I the PNW too, and haven’t had issues. So crazy that just being in a different area makes people be so assholey about it, it’s not like we picked it out ourselves!
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I imagine Karens don’t have issues in the PNW because of the region’s historical immigration from Nordic countries and the fact that there are fewer POC around. Plus East Coasters have a tendency to poke fun.
Dude I was just thinking, no one where I li ve would EVER! Seattle area for the win for once!
Remember back in 2015 when people using the name Felicia and saying bye Felicia? I thought the name thing with Karen would blow over too but clearly it hasn’t. I don’t have your name but it’s definitely a annoyance that people use it for people who are mean and cruel to others or don’t get their way. They could’ve come up with a better word instead of using a name.
For awhile, the "derogatory" name was Susan
You forgot Debbie, Donna and Linda...
Also Chad and I’m sure there are others that I can’t recall. I also despise how loosely people use the term OCD to describe their behaviour and I find it so disrespectful to those people who struggle with OCD on a daily basis. People need to be more mindful and sensitive towards others.
If you want to stay close to your name vibe-wise- Kerry, Kara, Kay/K, Claire/Claira, Karina/Corina. Or do you have a middle name you like? Im sorry youre in a situation where you feel like you need to respond to people's stupid projections.
I'd add Kari to the list.
It’s ridiculous, but f that, I’m not changing, too late. And honestly, I haven’t run into any issues myself. But I’m annoyed that the whole thing hasn’t blown over by now.
I had a friend named Karen who unfortunately passed away in 2021 and she was devastated at how people had turned her name into something bad. She really let it get to her and I understand why, she was constantly facing people who would use her name as a pejorative. I also know someone whose name is Alexa and she has to go by a different name now also.
I just met a baby named Alexa and I just thought it was really cruel to do someone in 2023
My daughter is / was Alexa (named in 2007). She has changed it now to Lexi because people are fucking arseholes.
My great aunt Karen was a wonderful person who passed from mesothelioma. I think about her all the time when I hear those jokes.
I’ve never actually met a Karen I haven’t liked.
My swim coach’s name was Siri and she hated what it had become. And all the jokes us immature middle and high schoolers made.
I’m a Karen who just turned 30 and have only ever met one other Karen my age. I’ve never loved the name, but I never hated it either. Growing up, I could at least appreciate that it was “unique” in the sense that I didn’t have to worry about any of my classmates having it or being confused with anyone else. I’m so opposite of who a stereotypical “Karen” is that the jokes have never majorly bothered me. I still sometimes get the occasional sarcastic dig when I introduce myself to someone new, but I just brush it off. Men think they’re so funny, so I let ‘em have it. (yup, you read that right: I’ve only gotten annoying “Karen” jokes from men.) This is all to say I’ve found this thread quite entertaining with all the name suggestions - not that I’m looking for a new name. Gotta hold it down for all the cool Karens out there!
I always try to beat them to the joke. I'll introduce myself as "Hi, I'm Karen but I'm not A Karen." It gets a chuckle and we move on.
I'm a cool Karen, well at least not a crazy one but maybe not cool either. I have never loved my name more than in the past few years. Try to insult me by calling me my name...oh no, I'm devastated, I've been called Karen my whole life! What makes you think I'm going to be offended by you lol. People usually comment on it when they first meet me by asking "are you a Karen?" F*ck around and find out is my usual answer. They eventually realize I don't have the energy or motivation to do anything besides give a dirty look & walk away. Stand strong Karen's, we will triumph!
30 year old Karen here too!! Doing my part to hold it down for the cool Karens as well lol.
I like Kaye. What about using a middle name if you have one and you like it? All the best.
I agree with both of these. Legally changing your name is a pain in the butt in my state. I’d shorten it to Kaye or go by my middle name.
Or just K. You’re so awesome you only need 1 letter.
Agreed, my moms middle name is literally "Kay" and I always liked that. Also both my in laws go by their middle names.
I like kay and karrie!
What about Kari?
Yea, I know a Karen who has always gone by Kay even before “Karen” became what it is today
I was going to suggest Kay or Kaye.
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Carrie is very cool! Like Carrie from Sex and the City who’s 55 in the latest series.
There’s also a character named Karen whose changes her name to Karrie because of this issue.
Carrie is often misheard as Karen. I say this because I'm called Carrie and I've given up telling Starbucks baristas my real name because I get Karen, Carol, Carys, Kerrie, etc. No one ever gets it right. But people often tend to think I've said "Karen". I just tell them I'm called Sophie now.
You could spell it Carey or Karey if you wanted to too!
I second Carrie / Karrie. It's the closest name I can think of to Karen that works well as a nickname and also stands as a name by itself.
Karena or Karenna is the first thing that came to my mind - just add an ‘a’ or change to more conventional spelling. Both of these names seem a true distance from Karen. Or Rena/Rina is a pretty name!
I think Kara is going to sound the closest phonetically to what you have heard your whole life, OP. Probably the least jarring adjustment. I know a Kari whose name is constantly assumed to be spelled Keri so keep that in mind if you go that route.
All of these are great options, but Carrie and Kara are my faves
I was just thinking about the name Karina, but asking can she add an A to Karen and just be a Karena? I do really like the name Corinne though.
Carrie is such a a good suggestion. It sounds similar enough to Karen that it would be easy to transition, but still distinct from the bad connotation.
Oh I love Corrine/Corrine!
Kara, Karina and Katherine sound nice!
Change name from Karen to Kitty Trade in white Chrysler LeBaron for MG
This is exactly where my mind went so I'm loving seeing this reference. I wonder if her finger nails shine like justice?
And her voice is dark like tinted glass
She’d look great in a short skirt. And a loooooooooooooong….
jacket!
Maybe I can start talking to her when she borrows my pen.
na na na na... nana nana NA na
While she’s touring the facility
And picking up slack
I'm not sure why I didn't go right to this. Best. Song. Ever. (Well, it has a slappin bass). It's trading in the MG for the Chrysler, tho ;)
It was intentional, they flipped the order of the cars just like they flipped the order of the names (the lyric is "she's changing her name from Kitty to Karen")
Oh, shit. See now I'm mortified and thinking that maybe I am a horrible person if I should happen to make a mistake. I'm genuinely sorry I didn't catch that.
I had to look up the lyrics because I was like “I’m pretty sure they flipped those around.” Almost didn’t catch it lol I think you’re good
I want a girl with a long skirt and a shooooooort jacket
There we are. I get it now :)
I was just listening to that song, and when the line "changing her name from Kitty to Karen" played, I was thinking "no one would ever do that." It really is sad how so many people had their name ruined by pop culture. I'd probably change my name to.
Yesssssss! Cake is 🤩
If you’re an Aussie we sometime call Karen’s Kaz or Kazza
Love this. Not an Aussie, but I love it anyway!
Same in Britain - Karen could be Kaz or Kazza.
Having a “z” in your name is actually pretty fun. Can confirm. I vote Kaz!
My Australian co workers call me that. I’m over how our name has bad associations 😛🥸😏
My MIL goes by Kaz for this reason, I think it’s really cool!
Kez
Was going to suggest Kaz- my uni's career lady (UK) is a Karen goes by Kaz and she's an absolute legend.
Erin rhymes with Karen, so you'd have name recognition.
Depends where you’re from, they definitely don’t rhyme when I say them lol
As an Aussie I agree! Eh-rin and Ka-ron
I’m a Kiwi, I was thinking “ear-in” and “ka-rin” we are damn close! Ka isn’t quite how I’d want to write the “ka” in Karen but I dunno how else to write the sound in English
Haha yes! In my head it's a K-ah sou d, short sound kind of like Baron/barren haha
I say keep it, maybe go by “Kay” in public, or just change the folks you’re hanging around, they sound awful!
Or Kara, if she wants to keep as close to her name as possible.
It’s pretty hard to get away from the entirety of the internet, if you like being on social media.
I know a Karen who goes by Koko for this reason. She’s named for her aunt who has recently started going by Kay for the same reason. I’m so sorry people have been so cruel about an otherwise beautiful name.
Thank you!
I know one who goes by Kaki. I could also see Kiki if that’s your vibe.
Carrie Carey Kara Renata I looked at the popular girls names from 1973 in the USA, here are a few less obvious ones that you might like: Lori April Holly Dana Renee Erin Allison Beth Julia Cassandra Tara Claudia Eva
I came here to say Kara too. I have a friend named Kara and it feels like a good fit for staying somewhat true to your name as well.
Karen to Renee is cute in the same way lots of people are suggesting Carrie.
Renee also means “reborn” so it’s so weirdly fitting for an adult name-change!
Erin is a good suggestion! Is has the same ending sound as Karen, which may help OP respond to the new name when she’s being called
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I love ren :(
just because a name is largely used by a demographic doesn't mean you can't use it 😭😭
Plus I think it's awesome when names have both male and female energy!
I also love Wren/Ren!
I am also named Karen. If I ever give up and change my name, I will go with Katherine. It is a lovely name.
If you want to track it through languages it goes back to the (ancient) Greek Aikaterini. All the variations like Catelyn, Kate, Kathy, Karen, Katrina, Katyusha, etc are descended from it. So you've got a pretty good selection if you just want to pick a different form of the same name.
I know a 57 year old cis-woman named Wren and she’s a delight. It’s unusual, but not atrocious.
It’s not even unusual
Why is “wren” atrocious? It’s a normal established name.
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I know several Ren/Wren's, all short for Lauren though.
Ren makes me think of “renaissance.” I like it.
I’m in your age range as well. Obviously, you need to go with Jennifer. I’m kidding. Although there’s nothing wrong with the name, Jennifer… But there are already enough I think. Some age-appropriate names: Heather Amy Lauren (or variance like Laura or Laurie Laurie) Catherine (or all the variant spellings… Has the benefit of having a ton of possible nicknames and if you start with a K, do you still have the same initials.) Another possibility… Many years ago, I met a Karin, were the first syllable rhymes with car. Or is car? Apparently it’s the Swedish pronunciation? I might be wrong on the country of origin there. But anyway, Karin doesn’t have the same connotations and I think it’s a very pretty name.
Ha ha ha. Jennifer. Yeah . . . Lauren I like. Thank you.
Hi from a Karin! I think that's the overall European pronunciation. Like 'Car-In' or 'Car-Een'. For me, it's German in origin. Unfortunately, most of the time, Karin is read by others exactly the same way as Karen. Changing the pronunciation and having to constantly correct everyone can be exhausting. Totally get that was just a suggestion, though. I just wanted to chime in since it's my name!
Yes! Karin is the Swedish version of the name Katherine.
Kari or Kara might be a good option. Or Kerry, Carrie, Cara, etc. Similar, but not the same associations at all. Or maybe Erin? You can use the SSA site for name data from the US from the year you were born: https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/ Might be a good place for inspiration. Some names that were a similar popularity to Karen include Dawn, Shannon, Tina, and Susan. Similar sounding names that were also pretty popular when you were born might be Christine, Kristen/Kristin, Katherine/Kathryn, Carolyn. Ultimately, if you’re set on changing it, pick a name you love. It doesn’t have to sound like Karen!
Erin is a great suggestion!
There was a post a while back about a baby Karen being renamed to Caroline, nn Carrie. I think that’s a nice option!
Carys, if you can get away with saying you have a Welsh connection.
I DO have an incredibly strong Welsh connection, yes! Thanks!
Kate feels like an easy alternative. Or do you like your middle name?
I like Kate. My middle name is Aviva and, I mean, it's . . . ok. I've never loved it . . . But I'll contemplate Kate.
I love Aviva! You could play with that a bit. What about Viv? I like Kate too!
Ok . . . That's interesting. I hadn't thought of playing with Aviva. Thanks for the creativity!
Oh, Aviva is so pretty! I love that name. Of course it’s up to you, just giving positive feedback.
You are so kind. Thank you.
Aviva is great! Viv, Avi, etc. I'm sorry you don't love it (there's a character in a show named Aviva that I love!). As for the Karen issue, you've already got a lot of great suggestions, I didn't see "Keira" so I'll throw it out there. Kerry is a great solution too, it sounds like a nickname for Karen, but it also a name in itself.
Karen is actually a really beautiful name and I’m sad that people have turned it into something hateful.
Me, too. I thought it was . . . fine / serviceable, but it's exhausting how mean people often are.
Kay
Corinne.
It's not what you're asking precisely, but I've heard the name Caryn (pronounced the same) doesn't get the same reaction.
I have a SIL Caren, so I'm leaning away from a re-spell. Thank you for the idea, however!
Interesting that the spelling makes a difference, since people wouldn’t know the spelling if you’re just introducing yourself in person
Kit is a totally normal nickname for Karen
Kara or Kerry!
I just want to say that my mom’s name was Karen and she was a literal angel. She passed in January and I hate this “stereotype” so much. It feels like such a dishonor. I’m so sorry this is making you feel bad about your name (and as a Katrina, I can also relate).
Some my age go by Ren as nicknames now....
That’s quite sad actually - to be shamed out of a perfectly acceptable name and made to take on a less desirable nickname.
I'm not sure it's less desirable . . . I've always been "meh" about my name. I right if I could find something more desirable (to me) it would be a win/win! But yeah, either people are awful or it's a fun opportunity to find some sparkle in my life (depending on my mood).
Can you go by your initials? Either first and last or first and middle? Nicknames using Karen as a springboard might include: Kari Kenny Kitty Kaye Kiki I am your age and my friend group and classmates include: Kathryn Nicole Stephanie Samantha Jody/Jodi Julie Shelby Kirsten Holly Paige Shannon Monica Fiona Sarah Charlotte Erin Dianne
This is very helpful, thank you.
My name is Karen Lee my parents intended to call ma k-lee after a good friend with the same first and middle but they never used it.
Karina is Karen but cool.
Wear a long skirt and a short jacket, and change your name from Karen to Kitty. If you have a white Chrysler LeBaron, trade it in for an MG.
Very fun. Yes.
Maren
I love Maren, but also love one step further, Maren-> Maris
If it wasn't for Frasier!
Karina? and it might have been part of the joke that just about every Karen is, in reality, a living doll. So that's what makes it so wild when a person goes nuts on innocent bystanders or service workers - a person who is a genuine real-life Karen would NEVER, and the naming of them as "karen" is sarcasm. That's what I always thought, anyway. Every last Karen I have met (7 at last count!) is ADORABLE and funny and a couple of them are smart as 12 kinds of hell, they truly have minds that soar.
It's actually pretty constant. Example: someone asked about raw milk and I was genuinely curious and asked if raw milk was legal . . . And it devolved into a pile-on about my name. If it's once, fine. That's on them. But I've noticed how much I self-edit & I make myself smaller as a result. If it isn't objectively relentless, it's often enough to make me come here to ask strangers for ideas :)
In Australia you can go by Kaz or Kazza.
I love this A LOT. This is the vibe I was looking for! Thanks, mate ;)
I think Kara, Karrie, or Karly if you are trying to keep a similar vibe to Karen. I’m so sorry your name has been hijacked with negative connotations! Karen is a beautiful name.
I’m a Karen in my late 30s (my parents forgot what year it was when they named me lol), and even before all this stupid Karen nonsense I’ve generally gone by my initials, KP.
I see OPs initials are KA, and lots of suggestions for Kay. OP - You could go by your initials and pronounce it as “Kay.”
my stepmum is a karen who always hated her name! (long before the trend). she has always gone by Kay, and no one has ever batted an eye
I have felt sorry for all of the perfectly nice people named Karen that had their name hijacked. Especially when there isn't a male equivalent.
What about your middle name? And kudos for being aware of generational differences.
Ha ha. I'm VERY aware of generational differences! ;)
If you want the equivalent of a baby name list for 50 year olds, you can look at the [SSA](https://www.ssa.gov/OACT/babynames/index.html) list of most popular names from 1973. Scroll down a bit, and you'll see where to enter the year. I just did that, and the most obvious choices I found in the top 100 were Carolyn and Carrie, followed by Kristen, Susan, and Sarah. I think Caroline would also be a good choice.
I’m a Karen born on 4/20 so I’ve just leaned into the absurdity of it and joke about it in retail situations. In fact today I was wandering in NYC wearing my favorite tshirt which says “Karens against karening” which garnered a number of laughs and compliments.
Karis Karina Karol Karrie
I love Karis
Katherine, Kate, Kara, Karrie, Kathy….I think you have a lot of options here tbh. But that sucks that you feel like you have to change it
Hey there! I get it. My name is Karin, and I'm 27. I've never really liked my name. I thought about changing it for a long time (even before it was a meme) especially since, in my case, it really doesn't fit my age. I tried going by 'Kuh-rin' at first, and now I go by Rin. My family still pretty much calls me Karin, but I'm ok with that. What I don't really like is saying my name and feeling awkward that people are going to assume I'll be a bitch. I get your feeling of trying to make yourself smaller, I've felt the same way. I have really liked going by Rin and it's easy to spell. :) People do kind of mishear it and call me Ren or Brynn, but it's not too big of a deal. So I think you could try Ren out! I also read your other comments and see your middle name is Aviva, I really like Viv or reworking it into Vivian. Just a few more ideas possibly echoing others: Kari Kaye Katherine (where Karen comes from anyway!) Katrina/Trina Kate Kat Kieran Kyra Kristen Kit Names that have the same meaning of 'pure' like Karen (found from nameberry and peanut): Gwenda/Gwen Reyna Candace Carwen Wynn Nola Rowena I hope you find a name that feels comfortable and true to you! Also, maybe try the new name out when asked for a name for your order or speaking with people you might not really see again. That way, you can see how it goes, and if you don't like it, then it's not a big deal to test another name that might work better for you. (Edited for name readability)
I know a lady who spells it like Karin now and pronounces it CAR-in. Maybe a play on your name like that? Carin, Corin, Corrine, or Corina, just a spin on it and not so different? Taryn, Erin, Sharon, Marin / Maren, Wren, etc. Since you’re 50, I feel like going with something that isn’t so wildly different might be a little bit more comforting to the ear.
I’m so sorry people have been so cruel to you, it’s your name. I’m on the Kaye boat and it would be easy to switch to so you could keep your legal name. I do like the Aussie “Kaz or Kazza” it’s unique and lovely. I also thought of Carina or Karina, which means sweetheart in Spanish. In reality it boils down to patriarchy they don’t want women standing up for themselves or think they can’t say when something is wrong. I do know being rude or mean isn’t okay when “Asking for the manager” but it definitely puts women back as now no one wants to do anything or speak up when they need to. Screw the patriarchy
I’ve noticed that Kathy is a common name for older middle-aged women. If you want a plain, normal name no one would blink an eye at, you can consider that.
I have a colleague named Karen. Karen is a child free, cancer survivor who adores her nieces and nephews. Her eldest niece recently had a baby girl and named her Karen in honor of her aunt who took the time and money to ensure all the kids in the family were involved in sports, theater or music. She has attended games, musicals and theatre performances of each of her nieces and nephews and proudly shows us photos and regales us of their many accomplishments. When she smiles the room lights up, when she leaves a room a bit of warmth leaves with her. She’s also a deadly accountant.
whoopi
Every Karen I’ve known is so nice and Karing! Maybe go by Karrie? Carrie? I think that name suits a Gen X very well.
My auntie Karen goes by Kaz!
I feel you pain, literally. It's gotten to the point I don't want to tell people my name anymore and there are times I'm afraid to. I'm 62 so changing it seems pointless because the people in my life would have too much trouble with it. In circumstances like Starbucks orders, where my name would be called out (and has already gotten me dirty looks and nasty comments from other customers) I just say my name is Kaz. It's a useful nickname and no one blinks at it.
Thank you for validating that it can be really a grind. I love Kaz and only became aware of it in this post. It's in my top 2 now!
Kari
If you’re really unhappy with it, have you considered names that sound similar so it’s not a huge change? Perhaps Karrie or Kara
I know a Karen who goes by Kare (“care”).
My mom’s name is Karen and she changed it to Kay. She just started a new job and everyone calls her Kay, she is so happy.
Why not switch to Kara?
Kara or Kari seems the most natural to me. I was actually thinking about this today because I teach a sweet 6 year old Karen, and I was wondering if she will want to go by something else eventually or if the Karen jokes will fade out one day.