Charley

Charley is a familiar form of Charles, whose Germanic ancestry is traditionally interpreted as “free man.” It can also be used within the Charlotte family or as an independent given name. The final ey is an established spelling choice rather than a new change to the name’s underlying meaning.

Charlie is the closest alternative, usually with the same pronunciation. The play Charley’s Aunt preserves this spelling in a longstanding theatrical title. Charley is used for boys and girls, and the written ending does not create a different etymology for either use. A family choosing it can retain a direct connection with Charles while keeping the everyday short form.