What does Caithlin mean and where does it come from?
Caithlin is a variation of the name Caitlin, which originates from the Irish name Caitlín. The name has its roots in Old French from the name Catherine. Its meaning refers to purity and clarity. Caithlin is used in both Ireland and Scotland and has seen various spellings and adaptations over the yea
Cultural significance
Caithlin has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pure.
Peak popularity
Reached #10301 in 1988 — currently #1814 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Caithlin?
Caithlin works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Caithlin Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Caithlin Rose
Floral · soft ending
Caithlin Mae
Sweet · timeless
Caithlin Claire
French influence · crisp
Caithlin Jane
Literary · strong
Caithlin Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Caithlin right now?
Holding steady — currently #1814 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1814 | 386 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2022 | #1819 | 366 | ▲ up 5 · +9% births |
| 2021 | #1824 | 336 | — |
The story of Caithlin
Caithlin is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1988. With 20 total births recorded, Caithlin remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1824 in 2021 to #1814 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Caithlin in 1988:
💎Caithlin has only 20 total recorded births since 1988 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Caithlin?
What names sound and feel like Caithlin?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Caithlin also consider these
Common questions about the name Caithlin
What does the name Caithlin mean?
Caithlin means "Pure" — a name rooted in Ireland tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Caithlin?
Caithlin is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Caithlin?
Caithlin originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Caithlin a common or rare name?
Caithlin is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Caithlin?
Caithlin naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.