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Name Popularity Over Time
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Similar Names
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Kathleen is a classic and enduring female name with a rich history and strong cultural significance. Its origins trace back to Ireland, where it is the Anglicized version of the Gaelic name Caitlín. The name means "pure" or "virginal," reflecting its early Christian associations.
The name Kathleen is a variant of the Irish name Caitlín, which in turn derives from the Latin name Catherina. Common alternate spellings and diminutive forms of Kathleen include Kaitlin, Caitlin, Katelyn, Kaitlyn, Kathie, Kathy, and Kath.
Kathleen has remained a popular choice for American parents over the past century, though its usage has fluctuated over the decades. In 2022, it ranked #1092 on the Social Security Administration's list of most popular baby names for girls, with 21 babies given the name that year. Its peak in popularity was in the 1950s and 60s, when it was a top 100 name. Though less common today, Kathleen still retains an enduring appeal as a classic and feminine name.
Kathleen is a name shared by several notable figures, including:
Kathleen is a timeless and traditional name that exudes a sense of elegance and grace. It has a classic, feminine style that appeals to parents seeking a name with a strong heritage and established cultural significance. Kathleen is often associated with nurturing, compassionate, and intelligent qualities.
People named Kathleen are often described as thoughtful, loyal, and nurturing. They tend to be caring, empathetic, and intellectually curious. Kathleens may also be seen as poised, refined, and possessing a quiet strength of character.
Kathleen flows well with a wide range of middle and last names, from classic and formal pairings like Kathleen Elizabeth Donovan to more modern combinations like Kathleen Rae Wallis. The name also complements many surname styles, from Irish and Celtic-inspired names to more common English and American last names.
Kathleen has a rich history in Irish and Catholic culture, with the name's origins tracing back to Saint Brigid of Kildare, a revered figure in early Irish Christianity. The name has also appeared in numerous works of literature, including James Joyce's novel Ulysses and the classic film The Quiet Man, starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara.
If you're considering the name Kathleen for your daughter, here are some alternative or sibling name ideas that complement its style and origin:
1880 | 21 | 357 |
1881 | 13 | 487 |
1882 | 22 | 386 |
1883 | 21 | 419 |
1884 | 27 | 389 |
1885 | 38 | 332 |
1886 | 43 | 324 |
1887 | 50 | 305 |
1888 | 67 | 287 |
1889 | 87 | 252 |
Rows per page
Kathy | 75 | View Details |
Cathleen | 12 | View Details |
Kathlyn | 6 | View Details |
Kathleeen | 0 | View Details |
Katherleen | 0 | View Details |
Kathlene | 0 | View Details |
Kathileen | 0 | View Details |
Katheleen | 0 | View Details |
Kathleenann | 0 | View Details |
Katleen | 0 | View Details |
Kathleene | 0 | View Details |
Katheen | 0 | View Details |
Kathleenmary | 0 | View Details |
Kathllen | 0 | View Details |
Kathaleen | 0 | View Details |
Kathelene | 0 | View Details |
Kathlen | 0 | View Details |
Kathyleen | 0 | View Details |
Kathlean | 0 | View Details |
Katholeen | 0 | View Details |
Kateleen | 0 | View Details |
Kathlee | 0 | View Details |
Kathreen | 0 | View Details |
Kathleena | 0 | View Details |
Kathlena | 0 | View Details |
Kathylene | 0 | View Details |
Kathren | 0 | View Details |
Kathie | 0 | View Details |
Kathyn | 0 | View Details |
Kathrene | 0 | View Details |