Meaning and history
Charmian is an English form of the ancient Greek name Charmion, derived from charma, “delight” or “joy.” Charmion was a trusted attendant of Cleopatra VII and appears in ancient accounts of the queen’s death. Shakespeare used the spelling Charmian for her in Antony and Cleopatra, strengthening the name’s literary association. Notable modern bearers include British writer Charmian Clift and New Zealand actor and writer Charmian Smith.