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Baby Name Meaning Kathryn

Introduction

Choosing a name for your baby is an exciting and important decision. If you're considering the name Kathryn, you're in good company. Kathryn is a classic name with a rich history and various meanings. In this article, we'll explore the origin, popularity, variations, and famous people with the name Kathryn to help you decide if it's the right name for your little one.

Origin and Meaning

Kathryn is a variant of the name Katherine, which comes from the Greek name Aikaterine. The meaning of Aikaterine is debated, but it's often said to mean 'pure' or 'clear'. The name Katherine was popularized by Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a Christian martyr who was tortured and beheaded for her faith in the 4th century. She was known for her intelligence and eloquence, and is the patron saint of philosophers, scholars, and librarians.

Popularity

Kathryn has been a popular name for girls in the United States since the early 20th century. It reached its peak in the 1950s and 60s, when it was consistently in the top 20 names for girls. Today, it's still a well-loved name, but it's not as common as it once was. In 2020, Kathryn ranked #319 on the list of most popular baby names for girls in the United States.

Variations

Kathryn has several variations and nicknames, including Katherine, Catherine, Katharine, Katarina, Kat, Katie, and Kathy. Each variation has its own unique history and meaning. Katherine and Catherine are the most common variations, and both have been popular names for centuries. Katharine is a less common variation that was popularized by the actress Katharine Hepburn. Katarina is a Slavic variation that means 'pure'. Kat, Katie, and Kathy are all popular nicknames for Kathryn and its variations.

Famous People with the Name Kathryn

There have been many famous people throughout history with the name Kathryn. Here are just a few: - Kathryn Bigelow: American film director and producer, known for her work on The Hurt Locker and Zero Dark Thirty - Kathryn Grayson: American actress and singer, known for her roles in musical films in the 1940s and 50s - Kathryn Morris: American actress, known for her role on the TV show Cold Case - Kathryn Stockett: American author, known for her novel The Help - Kathryn Tucker Windham: American storyteller and author, known for her ghost stories and folklore These women have all made significant contributions to their fields and have helped to make the name Kathryn a respected and admired name.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kathryn is a classic name with a rich history and various meanings. It's been a popular name for girls in the United States for over a century, and it's still a well-loved name today. With its many variations and nicknames, there's a version of the name that's perfect for every personality. Whether you choose Kathryn, Katherine, Catherine, or one of the other variations, your little one is sure to have a name that's both timeless and meaningful.