Kathryn
Kathryn is a girl name of Greek origin meaning “Pure”, pronounced KATH-rin. It ranked #729 in the United States in 2025, given to 381 babies, and peaked at #45 in 1951. Common nicknames: Kate, Katie, Kat.
How popular is Kathryn 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 Kathryn mean, and where does it come from?
Kathryn is the American spelling of Katherine, from the Greek Aikaterine — a name of uncertain origin that early Christians linked to katharos, "pure," and spelled accordingly ever after. The -ryn ending arrived in the nineteenth century and peaked at 45th place in 1951, making it a firmly mid-century American choice while Katherine and Catherine carried on unchanged. Kathryn Bigelow became the first woman to win the Academy Award for Best Directing; Kathryn Sullivan was the first American woman to walk in space.
How is Kathryn used around the world?
Kathryn is used in 0 languages worldwide, with 12+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Kathryn?
Famous People Named Kathryn
- Kathryn Bigelow — American film director, the first woman to win the Academy Award for Best Directing
- Kathryn D. Sullivan — American astronaut and the first American woman to walk in space
- Kathryn Hahn — American actress
Similar Names to Kathryn
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Sibling Name Ideas for Kathryn
Looking for names that pair well with Kathryn? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Kathryn mean?
Kathryn is a girl name of Greek origin meaning "Pure." Kathryn is the American spelling of Katherine, from the Greek Aikaterine — a name of uncertain origin that early Christians linked to katharos, "pure," and spelled accordingly ever after. The -ryn ending arrived in the nineteenth century and peaked at 45th place in 1951, making it a firmly mid-century American choice while Katherine and Catherine carried on unchanged.
How do you pronounce Kathryn?
Kathryn is pronounced KATH-rin. Common variations include Katherine, Catherine, Kathryne.
Is Kathryn a girl name?
Yes, Kathryn is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Kate, Katie, Kat, Kitty.