What does Kaitlinn mean and where does it come from?
Kaitlinn is a modern variation of the traditional Irish name Caitlín, which is derived from the Greek 'Aikaterine.' The name's popularity surged in the late 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. Kaitlinn suggests purity and innocence. Variations of Kaitlinn can be found in differ
Cultural significance
Kaitlinn has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pure.
Peak popularity
Reached #5652 in 1995 — currently #1324 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kaitlinn?
Kaitlinn works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kaitlinn Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kaitlinn Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kaitlinn Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kaitlinn Claire
French influence · crisp
Kaitlinn Jane
Literary · strong
Kaitlinn Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kaitlinn right now?
Holding steady — currently #1324 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1324 | 876 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1329 | 856 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1334 | 826 | ▲ up 12318 · +11700% births |
| 2005 | #13652 | 7 | ▼ down 4717 · -36% births |
| 2000 | #8935 | 11 | ▼ down 3283 · -35% births |
| 1995 | #5652 | 17 | ▲ up 8983 · +240% births |
| 1990 | #14635 | 5 | — |
The story of Kaitlinn
Kaitlinn is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1989. With 188 total births recorded, Kaitlinn remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #14635 in 1990 to #1324 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Kaitlinn in 1995:
Kaitlinn by decade
Kaitlinn peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s | 10 | |
| 1990s ★ | 112 | |
| 2000s | 66 | |
💎Kaitlinn has only 188 total recorded births since 1989 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Kaitlinn?
What names sound and feel like Kaitlinn?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kaitlinn also consider these
Common questions about the name Kaitlinn
What does the name Kaitlinn mean?
Kaitlinn means "Pure" — a name rooted in English 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 Kaitlinn?
Kaitlinn 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 Kaitlinn?
Kaitlinn originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Kaitlinn a common or rare name?
Kaitlinn is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Kaitlinn?
Kaitlinn 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.