What does Kaitlynn mean and where does it come from?
Kaitlynn is a modern variant of the name Caitlin, which is of Irish origin. The name is derived from the Irish name 'Caitlín', a diminutive form of 'Catherine', ultimately tracing back to Greek 'katharos', meaning 'pure'. Kaitlynn emerged as a popular name in the late 20th century, especially in the
Cultural significance
Kaitlynn has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pure.
Peak popularity
Reached #356 in 1998 — currently #1162 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kaitlynn?
Kaitlynn works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kaitlynn Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kaitlynn Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kaitlynn Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kaitlynn Claire
French influence · crisp
Kaitlynn Jane
Literary · strong
Kaitlynn Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kaitlynn right now?
Holding steady — currently #1162 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1162 | 1,038 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1167 | 1,018 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1172 | 988 | ▲ up 761 · +908% births |
| 2020 | #1933 | 98 | ▼ down 940 · -64% births |
| 2015 | #993 | 271 | ▼ down 272 · -31% births |
| 2010 | #721 | 392 | ▼ down 245 · -39% births |
| 2005 | #476 | 646 | ▼ down 108 · -19% births |
| 2000 | #368 | 801 | ▲ up 10 · +15% births |
| 1995 | #378 | 698 | ▲ up 277 · +105% births |
| 1990 | #655 | 340 | ▲ up 2960 · +1317% births |
| 1985 | #3615 | 24 | — |
The story of Kaitlynn
Kaitlynn is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1982. A total of 16,160 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3615 in 1985 to #1162 in 2023. Kaitlynn is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kaitlynn in 1998:
Kaitlynn by decade
Kaitlynn peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s | 609 | |
| 1990s | 6,280 | |
| 2000s ★ | 6,597 | |
| 2010s | 2,576 | |
| 2020s | 98 | |
What are good nicknames for Kaitlynn?
CROATIAN
InaKataKateKaticaTina
DANISH
CajaCarinaInaKajaKarenKarinKarinaKatjaTrine
What names sound and feel like Kaitlynn?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kaitlynn also consider these
How is Kaitlynn written in other languages?
Gender variants of Kaitlynn
Common questions about the name Kaitlynn
What does the name Kaitlynn mean?
Kaitlynn 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 Kaitlynn?
Kaitlynn is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Kaitlynn?
Kaitlynn 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 Kaitlynn a common or rare name?
Kaitlynn is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Kaitlynn more of a girl or boy name?
Kaitlynn is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.