Name Meaning & Origin
🔊 KATH-leen /ˈkæθliːn/
"Pure"
Derived from 'Cathail', an Irish name meaning 'battle, war'. The name Kathleen is often associated with Irish literature and mythology. It was also the name of a popular 19th-century Irish ballad, 'The Ballad of Katheleen'.
Kathleen is a female given name, used in English- and Irish-language communities. Sometimes spelled Cathleen, it is an Anglicized form of Caitlín, the Irish form of Cateline, which was the Old French form of Catherine. It ultimately derives from the Greek name Aikaterine, the meaning of which is highly debated. Kathleen was the 8th most popular girls' name in Ireland in 1911, but by 1965 it had sunk to number 18.…
The name Kathleen is an English variant of Catherine, derived from the Greek name Aikaterine, meaning 'pure' or 'clear'. The name has its roots in the Hebrew language, where it signifies 'God is my li…
Emotional Traits
Hidden Personality
Lucky Colors
Numerology: Those born under the 5 Life Path Number are likely to be extremely versatile and adaptable.
Life Path 4 — Stability & Hard Work: Reliable, disciplined, and exceptionally organized.
Cultural Impact
The name Kathleen has deep cultural roots, particularly in Ireland. It carries a rich literary tradition, as it was the subject of many famous Irish ballads and poems. The name evokes a sense of passion, strength, and resilience, reflecting the spirit of the Irish people.
Spiritual Significance
Kathleen, as a Christian name, also holds deep spiritual significance. Cathail, the ancient Irish name from which Kathleen is derived, signifies 'battle, war'. As a Christian name, it can be interpreted as a reminder of the spiritual battles we face in our daily lives. Moreover, the name's association with Ireland, a land known for its long-standing Catholic heritage, adds a layer of spiritual meaning that encourages faith, perseverance, and strength in the face of challenges.
Based on 715,129 US Social Security records
Root element "Kathleen" emerges in Irish tradition, carrying the core meaning "Pure".
Used in English literary and religious texts, spreading through cultural exchange.
Carried across regions through trade, religion, and migration. Multiple spelling variants develop.
Standardized in its current form, established across English-speaking and Muslim communities.
~715,129 people named Kathleen in the US. Peaked in 1951 with 26,749 recorded uses.
According to legend, St. Katharine of Alexandria was a beautiful virgin who converted many to Christianity through her wisdom and miracles. She was martyred around 305 AD during the reign of Emperor Maxentius.
Kathleen of Ireland, also known as Catherine of Siena, was a 14th-century Italian saint who devoted her life to religious contemplation. She was known for her mystical visions and letters to various religious figures, and was canonized in 1461.
Modern Usage
Kathleen is a name with rich history and meaning, and while its popularity waned in the late 20th century, it has seen a resurgence in recent decades. Today, it's a common name seen on various platforms, from popular baby name websites and social media to movies and TV shows. In modern pop culture, Kathleen is a name associated with strong, independent women in shows like 'Gilmore Girls' and 'The L Word', and in horror and suspenseful contexts in 'The Walking Dead'. Overall, the name Kathleen continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a beautiful, meaningful name for their child.
Kathleen means "Pure" and is a popular Christian name with deep spiritual significance.
Yes, Kathleen is a beautiful Christian name that carries positive meaning and is widely used in Christian communities around the world.
Kathleen has Irish origins and is rooted in Christian tradition and culture.
The Life Path number for Kathleen is 4, associated with Stability & Hard Work. Soul Urge: 11. Personality: 2.
Kathleen is Predominantly Female. Based on US data, 0% male and 100% female.
Approximately 715,129 people in the United States are named Kathleen. The name peaked in 1951 with 26,749 recorded uses.
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