Karlsen is a surname of Scandinavian origin, commonly found in countries like Norway and Denmark. It is derived from the given name Karl, which means "man" or "free man." The suffix "-sen" indicates "son of," making Karlsen mean "son of Karl." People with the surname Karlsen may be involved in various fields, including sports, arts, and academia. Notable individuals with this surname include Henrik Karlsen, a professional athlete, and Lise Karlsen, an accomplished artist. The name reflects a rich cultural heritage linked to the history of the Nordic region.