Meaning: Crimson; from Latin carminium (crimson red dye, from Arabic qirmiz + Latin minium); also the Italian form of Carmen (Hebrew: garden, song)Medium
In 30 seconds: An Italian name that carries two possible meanings: 'crimson' (from the carmine red dye) or 'song/garden' (from the Italian form of Carmen). Both give it a vivid, artistic quality.
MeaningCrimson; from Latin carminium (crimson red dye, from Arabic qirmiz + Latin minium); also the Italian form of Carmen (Hebrew: garden, song)
U.S. rank (2024)#1097 ↗ Rising
2024 U.S. births196 boys (0.01% of U.S. boys)
Peak year2006
Total births (all-time)≈ 13,735
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Carmine has two possible roots: Latin carminium (crimson dye, from cochineal) or Italian/Spanish Carmen, from Hebrew Karmel (garden) or Latin carmen (song, poem). As an Italian masculine name it blends these associations.
Carmine is used primarily in Italian American communities. It ranked #1097 for boys in 2024.
Did you know? Carmine — the brilliant red dye — was once extracted from the cochineal insect of South America. After the Spanish conquered the Americas, cochineal became one of the most valuable exports from the New World to Europe, more precious than gold per weight for much of the 16th–18th centuries.
Overall data confidence 83%
Behind the Name — Carmine — Italian/Latin etymologyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data
Variations
CarmenCarmino
Nicknames
CarmiCar
Famous Bearers
Famous bearers coming soon.
If you like Carmine…
Carmelo— Italian Carm- opening name with the same Mediterranean warmth
Carmen— the female/Spanish form sharing the same possible roots
Marco— Italian masculine name with the same warm Mediterranean character
Mario— Italian masculine name with the same classic Italian feel
Massimo— Italian masculine name with the same full, resonant Italian quality
Frequently Asked
What does the name Carmine mean?
Carmine means 'crimson' (from the carmine dye) or 'song/garden' (from the Italian form of Carmen). Both roots give it a vivid artistic quality.
How do you pronounce Carmine?
It's said KAR-mine — two syllables, stress on the first.
Is Carmine a boy or girl name?
Carmine is used as a boys' name in Italian tradition.
