Catherine
- Home
- Girl Names
- Catherine
What does the baby name Catherine mean? Learn about what Catherine means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Catherine - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Spelling of Catherine
- C-A-T-H-E-R-I-N-E, is a 9-letter female given name.
- Pronunciation of Catherine
- KATH eh rin
- KATH rin
- Meaning of Catherine
- Pure, virginal.
- Origin of Catherine
- The name 'Catherine' finds its roots in the ancient Greek name Aikaterine, which is believed to have been derived from the Greek word 'katharos', meaning 'pure' or 'unsullied'. Its earliest known use can be traced back to the early Christian era, with the name gaining popularity due to the influence of Saint 'Catherine' of Alexandria, a revered early Christian martyr.
- American Names
- Anglo Saxon Names
- British Names
- Canadian Names
- Celebrity Names
- Classic Names
- English Names
- Greek Names
- Old English Names
- Royal Names
- Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Catherine
- Caitlin
- Caitrine
- Caitrionia
- Caryn
- Cass
- Cassie
- Catalina
- Caterina
- Cathleen
- Cathy
- Catout
- Catrionagh
- Catuja
- Cawth
- Ekaterina
- Kaatja
- Kait
- Kajsa
- Karan
- Karen
- Kasen
- Kasja
- Kaska
- Katalin
- Katarzyna
- Katchen
- Kate
- Kateke
- Katerina
- Katherine
- Kathleen
- Kathrinna
- Kathy
- Katica
- Katja
- Katka
- Katla
- Katlaina
- Katreen
- Katri
- Katrien
- Katrin
- Katrina
- Katy
- Katya
- Kay
- Kayla
- Kerry
- Kitty
- Kotinka
- Kotrina
- Rina
- Treinel
- Trina
- Trinchen
- Trine
- Trinette
- Yekaterina
- Ykaterina
- Popularity of Catherine
- Throughout history, the name 'Catherine' has experienced fluctuations in popularity. It reached its peak in the late 19th century and early 20th century, when it consistently ranked among the top names for girls. This surge in popularity can be attributed to the enduring appeal of classic names during that era. In recent years, 'Catherine' has maintained a steady presence, often ranking within the top 100 names for girls in various countries.
- Catherine currently has 886 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked girl's names. The name Kimberly is slightly more popular than Catherine.
Etymology of Catherine
The etymology of 'Catherine' can be traced back to the Greek name Aikaterine, which is believed to have been influenced by the goddess Hecate. Hecate was often associated with purity and was revered as a protector of women, making the name 'Catherine' a fitting choice for parents seeking to bestow their child with qualities of strength, purity, and resilience.
Cultural Significance of Catherine
'Catherine' holds significant cultural importance in various contexts. In Christian traditions, the name is closely associated with Saint 'Catherine' of Alexandria, who is revered as a patron saint of scholars, philosophers, and women. Her intellectual prowess and unwavering faith have made her an inspiration for countless individuals throughout history.
In addition, 'Catherine' has been a popular name among royalty, with several queens and princesses bearing this regal name. Notable figures such as 'Catherine' the Great of Russia and 'Catherine' de' Medici, the influential queen consort of France, have left an indelible mark on history, further cementing the name 's cultural significance.