Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
Katheleen is a name of Greek origin derived from Aikaterine, meaning 'pure'. It has evolved through various historical forms, including Catherine and Katherine, and is associated with traits of elegance and timelessness. The name does not have a biblical background but gained popularity due to the influence of Saint Catherine. Today, it is perceived positively and has several variants.
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/kæθˈliːn/
Origin
Greek
Etymology
The name Katheleen is derived from the Greek name 'Aikaterine', which is believed to mean 'pure'. It is often associated with the early Christian martyr Saint Catherine of Alexandria.
Meaning
pure
Language Evolution
Aikaterine, Catherine, Katherine, Kathleen
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity in the English-speaking world during the Middle Ages, largely due to the veneration of Saint Catherine, and has remained a common name in various forms ever since.
Variants & Derivatives
Catherine, Katherine, Cate, Kitty, Kathy
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, Kathleen is viewed as a classic and timeless name, often associated with elegance and sophistication. It remains relatively popular in various cultures.
Famous People
Kathleen Turner, Kathleen Kennedy, Kathleen Sebelius
📊 Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Name Visualizations
Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 33 peak births in 1952
Geographic Spread
Popular across 3 US states, with strongest presence in California
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 6 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Alternative Spellings & Similar Sounds (28 Variations)
Explore names that share identical pronunciation with different spellings. These variations offer alternative options for parents seeking unique yet familiar-sounding choices. This curated collection includes 28 carefully selected variations that maintain the same phonetic sound while providing distinct spelling options.
Why consider alternative spellings? Different spellings can offer unique cultural significance or personal preference while maintaining the familiar sound. This collection covers various spelling patterns, helping you find variations that match your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Girl | 2507th of 9107 | 222 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Girl | 2381st of 9204 | 240 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 2318th of 12526 | 436 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 5045th of 19264 | 169 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 8985th of 27321 | 115 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 18570th of 35406 | 48 |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
94.25% 2099th/2227 |
100.00% 2430th/2430 |
- |
88.07% 2444th/2775 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - |
94.43% 7047th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
State-by-State Popularity
This map shows relative popularity across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends in the United States
This name shows strongest popularity in California across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Baby Boomers generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, usage has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in West. Across generations, popularity patterns vary significantly: Among the G.I. Generation (1901-1927), it ranked 2507th out of 9107 names. Among the Silent Generation (1928-1945), it ranked 2381st out of 9204 names. Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 2318th out of 12526 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 5045th out of 19264 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 8985th out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 18570th out of 35406 names. Explore how this name has evolved through American history with comprehensive regional and generational analysis.