What does Kathileen mean and where does it come from?
Kathileen is a variant of the name Kathleen, which is ultimately derived from the Irish name Caitlín. The name is commonly used in Scotland and Ireland, but it has spread to the United States as well. The meaning of 'pure' is often attributed to this name, and it has been borne by many notable women
Cultural significance
Kathileen has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.
Peak popularity
Reached #4874 in 1952 — currently #795 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Scotland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kathileen?
Kathileen works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kathileen Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kathileen Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kathileen Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kathileen Claire
French influence · crisp
Kathileen Jane
Literary · strong
Kathileen Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kathileen right now?
Holding steady — currently #795 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #795 | 1,405 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #800 | 1,385 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #805 | 1,355 | — |
The story of Kathileen
Kathileen entered American naming records in 1951 and has been in use for over 73 years. With 29 total births recorded, Kathileen remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #805 in 2021 to #795 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Kathileen in 1952:
💎Kathileen has only 29 total recorded births since 1951 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Kathileen?
What names sound and feel like Kathileen?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kathileen also consider these
Common questions about the name Kathileen
What does the name Kathileen mean?
Kathileen means "Irish" — a name rooted in Scotland 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 Kathileen?
Kathileen is currently ranked #795 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 Kathileen?
Kathileen originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
What sibling names go well with Kathileen?
Kathileen pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Scotland heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
What are good nicknames for Kathileen?
Kathileen 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.