Kate
Kate is a girl name of Greek origin meaning “Pure”, pronounced KAYT. It ranked #522 in the United States in 2025, given to 576 babies, and peaked at #79 in 1880. Common nicknames: Katie, Kay.
How popular is Kate in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Kate mean, and where does it come from?
Kate began as a diminutive of Katherine and Katharine, both ultimately derived from the Greek Aikaterine and its association with "katharos," meaning "pure." Though long used informally as a nickname, Kate has stood on its own as a formal given name for centuries, valued for its brisk, elegant simplicity. It has been carried by numerous queens, actresses, and public figures, cementing its place as a timeless classic in its own right.
How is Kate used around the world?
Kate is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 32+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Kate?
Famous People Named Kate
- Kate Middleton — Catherine, Princess of Wales
- Kate Winslet — British actress
- Kate Hudson — American actress
Similar Names to Kate
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Sibling Name Ideas for Kate
Looking for names that pair well with Kate? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Kate mean?
Kate is a girl name of Greek origin meaning "Pure." Kate began as a diminutive of Katherine and Katharine, both ultimately derived from the Greek Aikaterine and its association with "katharos," meaning "pure." Though long used informally as a nickname, Kate has stood on its own as a formal given name for centuries, valued for its brisk, elegant simplicity.
How do you pronounce Kate?
Kate is pronounced KAYT. Common variations include Cate, Kait, Kayt.
Is Kate a girl name?
Yes, Kate is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Katie, Kay.