Katherine
Katherine is a girl name of Greek origin meaning “Pure”, pronounced KATH-er-in. It ranked #186 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,670 babies, and peaked at #25 in 1991. Common nicknames: Kate, Katie, Kat.
How popular is Katherine 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 Katherine mean, and where does it come from?
Katherine derives from the Greek name Aikaterine, which has been associated with the Greek word "katharos" meaning "pure," though its true etymology remains debated. Some scholars believe it may have pre-Greek origins, possibly linked to the goddess Hecate. The name was borne by several saints, most notably Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a 4th-century martyr who became one of the most venerated saints in Christendom. Katherine has been a royal name across Europe for centuries, carried by queens of England, France, and Russia. It remains one of the most enduringly popular and versatile girl names in the English-speaking world.
How is Katherine used around the world?
Katherine is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 49+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Katherine?
Famous People Named Katherine
- Katherine Hepburn — legendary American actress
- Catherine the Great — Empress of Russia
- Katherine Johnson — NASA mathematician
Similar Names to Katherine
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Sibling Name Ideas for Katherine
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Katherine mean?
Katherine is a girl name of Greek origin meaning "Pure." Katherine derives from the Greek name Aikaterine, which has been associated with the Greek word "katharos" meaning "pure," though its true etymology remains debated. Some scholars believe it may have pre-Greek origins, possibly linked to the goddess Hecate.
How do you pronounce Katherine?
Katherine is pronounced KATH-er-in. Common variations include Catherine, Kathryn, Catharine.
Is Katherine a girl name?
Yes, Katherine is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Kate, Katie, Kat, Kit.