Skip to main content
Back to all names
GirlGreek#175falling

Katherine

KATH-uh-rin

Katherine is a girl’s name of Greek origin, meaning “Katherine is derived from the Greek name Aikaterine, of uncertain meaning, but often associated with 'pure'. It has been a royal name for centuries.”. It currently ranks #175 in the US, and peaked in popularity in 1990.

Letters9
Syllables3
OriginGreek

What Katherine Means

Katherine is derived from the Greek name Aikaterine, of uncertain meaning, but often associated with 'pure'. It has been a royal name for centuries.

The Story of Katherine

From ancient Greek purity to royal courts, this name carries a legacy of strength that’s been waiting for your daughter.

Katherine, likely derived from the Greek name Aikaterine, is traditionally associated with the meaning 'pure.' It was a prominent name among Byzantine royalty and later adopted by European nobility, most famously by Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a martyr revered for her intellect and faith. The name's journey took it through countless cultures, evolving into many forms while retaining its core sense of purity.

There's an inherent strength and clarity when you utter 'Katherine,' a name that feels both noble and deeply personal. It’s the name you’ll use for a daughter whose spirit you already sense is unyielding and bright. You can feel the weight of its history when you write it, knowing it signifies an enduring, untarnished character.

Nickname Watch

Kids pick up nicknames whether parents plan for it or not. Make sure you love the short forms too.

AI Features

Unlock Katherine’s Full Story

AI consultant · Sibling matches · Cultural deep-dive · Compatibility scores

🔒 No credit card needed

Numerology

2

The Peacemaker

Diplomatic, sensitive, and cooperative. These names bring a harmonious, gentle quality.

Famous Namesakes

  • Katherine Hepburn

    American actress known for her independence and strength.

  • Katherine Johnson

    African-American NASA mathematician and physicist.

Personality Traits

IntelligentIndependentStrongKind

Spelling Variations

Peak Year

#11,659 in 1990

Total Births

651,062

First Recorded

1880

More Names Like Katherine

View all

Explore related name groups

Save Katherine to your favorites list