What does Kathryn mean and where does it come from?
Kathryn is a variant of Katherine, which has roots in Greek and comes from the word 'katharos,' meaning 'pure.' The name gained popularity in the English-speaking world since the Middle Ages. Notably, variations like 'Catherine' and 'Katherine' were used by many royal families. Famous individuals na
Cultural significance
Kathryn has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pure.
Peak popularity
Reached #45 in 1951 — currently #571 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kathryn?
Kathryn works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kathryn Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kathryn Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kathryn Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kathryn Claire
French influence · crisp
Kathryn Jane
Literary · strong
Kathryn Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kathryn right now?
Holding steady — currently #571 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #571 | 1,629 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #576 | 1,609 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #581 | 1,579 | ▼ down 46 · +183% births |
| 2020 | #535 | 558 | ▼ down 216 · -45% births |
| 2015 | #319 | 1,016 | ▼ down 89 · -26% births |
| 2010 | #230 | 1,367 | ▼ down 105 · -47% births |
| 2005 | #125 | 2,571 | ▼ down 36 · -29% births |
| 2000 | #89 | 3,642 | ▼ down 6 · -16% births |
| 1995 | #83 | 4,330 | ▼ down 26 · -32% births |
| 1990 | #57 | 6,352 | ▼ down 9 · -4% births |
| 1985 | #48 | 6,633 | ▲ up 2 · +20% births |
| 1980 | #50 | 5,528 | ▲ up 49 · +88% births |
| 1975 | #99 | 2,948 | ▲ up 5 · -21% births |
| 1970 | #104 | 3,719 | ▼ down 17 · -11% births |
| 1965 | #87 | 4,159 | — |
The story of Kathryn
Kathryn has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #45 in 1951. More than 454,245 babies have been named Kathryn since 1880. Once ranked #103 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #571 in 2023. Kathryn is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kathryn in 1951:
Kathryn by decade
Kathryn peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 3,276 | |
| 1890s | 5,660 | |
| 1900s | 8,333 | |
| 1910s | 29,281 | |
| 1920s | 33,868 | |
| 1930s | 22,671 | |
| 1940s | 44,683 | |
| 1950s ★ | 77,931 | |
| 1960s | 44,990 | |
| 1970s | 36,560 | |
| 1980s | 62,724 | |
| 1990s | 47,220 | |
| 2000s | 26,327 | |
| 2010s | 10,163 | |
| 2020s | 558 | |
What are good nicknames for Kathryn?
CROATIAN
InaKataKateKaticaTina
DANISH
CajaCarinaInaKajaKarenKarinKarinaKatjaTrine
What names sound and feel like Kathryn?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kathryn also consider these
How is Kathryn written in other languages?
Gender variants of Kathryn
Common questions about the name Kathryn
What does the name Kathryn mean?
Kathryn means "pure" — a name rooted in American 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 Kathryn?
Kathryn is currently ranked #571 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 Kathryn?
Kathryn originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Kathryn more of a girl or boy name?
Kathryn is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
What are good nicknames for Kathryn?
Kathryn 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.