Kathleen
Kathleen is a girl name of Irish origin meaning “Pure”, pronounced KATH-leen. It ranked #1156 in the United States in 2025, given to 201 babies, and peaked at #9 in 1949. Common nicknames: Kathy, Kate, Kat.
How popular is Kathleen 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 Kathleen mean, and where does it come from?
Kathleen is the anglicized form of the Irish name Caitlin, which itself descends from Katherine through Old French Cateline and ultimately the Greek Aikaterine, meaning "pure." It became one of the most popular Irish-American names of the twentieth century, closely associated with Irish heritage and Catholic naming traditions. Kathleen enjoyed particular popularity in the United States from the 1930s through the 1960s and retains a warm, classic charm.
How is Kathleen used around the world?
Kathleen is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 3+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Kathleen?
Famous People Named Kathleen
- Kathleen Turner — American actress
- Kathleen Kennedy — American film producer and president of Lucasfilm
Similar Names to Kathleen
If you like Kathleen, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Kathleen
Looking for names that pair well with Kathleen? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Kathleen mean?
Kathleen is a girl name of Irish origin meaning "Pure." Kathleen is the anglicized form of the Irish name Caitlin, which itself descends from Katherine through Old French Cateline and ultimately the Greek Aikaterine, meaning "pure." It became one of the most popular Irish-American names of the twentieth century, closely associated with Irish heritage and Catholic naming traditions.
How do you pronounce Kathleen?
Kathleen is pronounced KATH-leen. Common variations include Cathleen, Kathaleen, Kathlene.
Is Kathleen a girl name?
Yes, Kathleen is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Kathy, Kate, Kat, Katie.