What does Katie mean and where does it come from?
Katie is often considered a diminutive form of Katherine, which is of Greek origin, meaning 'pure'. The name has experienced waves of popularity, particularly in the late 20th century in English-speaking countries. Notable figures include Katie Holmes, an American actress. The name has many variatio
Cultural significance
Katie has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pure.
Peak popularity
Reached #38 in 1986 — currently #527 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Katie?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Katie?
Katie works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Katie Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Katie Rose
Floral · soft ending
Katie Mae
Sweet · timeless
Katie Claire
French influence · crisp
Katie Jane
Literary · strong
Katie Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Katie right now?
Rising — up 29 spots — currently #527 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #527 | 576 | ▲ up 29 · +5% births |
| 2022 | #556 | 548 | ▼ down 31 · -7% births |
| 2021 | #525 | 587 | ▼ down 41 · -6% births |
| 2020 | #484 | 626 | ▼ down 177 · -41% births |
| 2015 | #307 | 1,055 | ▼ down 146 · -44% births |
| 2010 | #161 | 1,900 | ▼ down 62 · -40% births |
| 2005 | #99 | 3,164 | ▼ down 3 · -7% births |
| 2000 | #96 | 3,397 | ▼ down 19 · -24% births |
| 1995 | #77 | 4,479 | ▼ down 24 · -31% births |
| 1990 | #53 | 6,515 | ▼ down 14 · -19% births |
| 1985 | #39 | 7,994 | ▲ up 5 · +30% births |
| 1980 | #44 | 6,135 | ▲ up 150 · +374% births |
| 1975 | #194 | 1,294 | ▲ up 162 · +84% births |
| 1970 | #356 | 703 | ▲ up 88 · +55% births |
| 1965 | #444 | 453 | — |
The story of Katie
Katie has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #38 in 1986. More than 238,750 babies have been named Katie since 1880. Once ranked #76 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #527 in 2023. Katie is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Katie in 1986:
Katie by decade
Katie peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 3,907 | |
| 1890s | 5,183 | |
| 1900s | 5,309 | |
| 1910s | 8,436 | |
| 1920s | 9,443 | |
| 1930s | 6,998 | |
| 1940s | 6,192 | |
| 1950s | 5,257 | |
| 1960s | 5,215 | |
| 1970s | 17,511 | |
| 1980s ★ | 73,105 | |
| 1990s | 49,467 | |
| 2000s | 30,486 | |
| 2010s | 11,615 | |
| 2020s | 626 | |
What are good nicknames for Katie?
What names sound and feel like Katie?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Katie also consider these
How is Katie written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Katie
What does the name Katie mean?
Katie 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 Katie?
Katie is currently ranked #527 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Katie?
Katie 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 Katie?
Katie is a two-syllable name pronounced K AA1 T AY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Katie more of a girl or boy name?
Katie is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.