Cathryn – Name Meaning

The name Cathryn is a feminine given name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word “katharos”, which means “pure”. The name has been in use since the Middle Ages and is still popular today.

History and Origin

The name Cathryn has its roots in ancient Greece. It was first used as a given name by the Greeks in the 5th century BC. The name was popularized by the Roman Empire, where it was used to refer to a woman of high social standing. In the Middle Ages, it became more common among European royalty and nobility.

The name Cathryn has also been used in literature, most notably by William Shakespeare in his play “Romeo and Juliet”. In this play, Juliet’s nurse is named Cathryn. The name has also been used in other works of literature such as “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger.

Popularity

The name Cathryn has remained popular throughout history and is still widely used today. According to Social Security Administration data, it was the 463rd most popular female baby name in 2019. It is particularly popular in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Famous People Named Cathryn

There are many famous people who have borne the name Cathryn over the years. Some notable examples include:

  • Cathryn Harrison – British actress
  • Cathryn Michon – American actress and writer
  • Cathryn Fox – Canadian author
  • Cathryn Clüver Ashbrook – American diplomat

Meaning of the Name Cathryn

The meaning of the name Cathryn is “pure” or “innocent”. This reflects its Greek origins and suggests that those who bear this name are pure of heart and innocent of spirit.

By Ava Isabella Hartley

Ava Isabella Hartley is a renowned expert in the field of onomastics, the study of names and their meanings, with a particular focus on baby names. She holds a Master's degree in Linguistics from the University of Cambridge and has over 15 years of experience in the study of etymology, name trends, and cultural naming practices.

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