📅 Since 1910🏆 26 years in top 1001.19% of births at peak
How to pronounce Kathy
KATH·ee
/ˈkæθ.iː/ · stress on KATH · 2 syllables
“A diminutive form of Katherine, meaning 'pure'.”
American origin · Unisex name
What does Kathy mean and where does it come from?
Kathy is an affectionate nickname that became popular in the 20th century, deriving from Katherine, which has Greek origins. The name has been borne by various notable women, including Kathy Bates, an award-winning actress. Over the years, Kathy has fluctuated in popularity, particularly during the
Cultural significance
Kathy has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a diminutive form of katherine, meaning 'pure'..
Holding steady — currently #862 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1910–2023#862 · Top 0.64%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#862
1,338
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022
#867
1,318
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021
#872
1,288
▲ up 1313 · +1471% births
2020
#2185
82
▼ down 506 · -35% births
2015
#1679
126
▼ down 420 · -34% births
2010
#1259
190
▼ down 371 · -33% births
2005
#888
284
▼ down 236 · -25% births
2000
#652
379
▼ down 88 · -7% births
1995
#564
409
▼ down 59 · -14% births
1990
#505
478
▼ down 135 · -23% births
1985
#370
617
▼ down 115 · -39% births
1980
#255
1,010
▼ down 95 · -40% births
1975
#160
1,690
▼ down 83 · -65% births
1970
#77
4,798
▼ down 23 · -38% births
1965
#54
7,762
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Kathy
1960Rank #21
18,480
#1006
↗Rising
1910 - 202326 years
The story of Kathy
Kathy entered American naming records in 1910 and has been in use for over 114 years. Its peak popularity was #14 in 1958. More than 334,526 babies have been named Kathy since 1910. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2741 in 1910 to #862 in 2023. Kathy is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Kathy means "A diminutive form of Katherine, meaning '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 Kathy?
Kathy is currently ranked #862 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 Kathy?
Kathy 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.
How do you pronounce the name Kathy?
Kathy is a two-syllable name pronounced K AE1 TH IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kathy a common or rare name?
Kathy is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Kathy
For a sister
Kathy & Summer♡
Kathy & Rosemary♡
Kathy & Dariel♡
Kathy & Marshall♡
For a brother
Kathy & Wesley♡
Kathy & Summer♡
Kathy & Jason♡
Kathy & Rosemary♡
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