Cathleen

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Cathleen

Cathleen is a Celtic girl name, which has 8 letters.

Cathleen is a female given name of Irish origin. It is a variant of the Irish name Caitlín, which is derived from the Gaelic cait, meaning "pure." It is often anglicized as Kathleen.

Pronuncation KATH-LEEN

Alternate Meaning Pure / chaste

Origin or Current Usage Celtic

Gender F

Rating

Be the first one to vote!

Log in to save this name to your favorites.

What to Expect When You're Expecting

Buy On Amazon

The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be

Buy On Amazon

Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide

Buy On Amazon

Mayo Clinic Guide to Your Baby's First Years

Buy On Amazon

Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy

Buy On Amazon
These are affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Detailed Information About The Name Cathleen

Cathleen is a feminine given name derived from the Irish name Caitlín, which itself is a variation of Katherine. The name has several different spellings, including Kathleen, Kathlene, and Kathlyn. It is derived from the Greek word "katharos," meaning pure or clean. Cathleen holds deep Irish roots and has been a popular name in Ireland for centuries.

In Irish folklore, Cathleen is associated with a character of the same name who represents Ireland itself. She is often depicted as a powerful and resilient woman, embodying the essence of the Irish people. The name gained popularity outside of Ireland in the early 20th century and has since spread to various English-speaking countries.

Those named Cathleen are often described as intelligent, creative, and independent individuals. They are known for their strong-willed nature and their ability to overcome challenges with determination and grace. Cathleens are often admired for their leadership skills and their ability to inspire others.

People named Cathleen often go by various nicknames, including Cathy, Kate, and Katie. The name has also been used as a surname in some cases. Notable individuals named Cathleen include Cathleen Nesbitt, a British actress, and Cathleen Schine, an American writer.

The popularity of the name Cathleen has fluctuated over the years, experiencing peaks and declines. However, it retains its charm and appeal with its rich history and enduring qualities. Whether spelled Cathleen or in one of its variations, the name continues to be a cherished choice for parents seeking a name with Irish heritage and a touch of elegance.

Search Baby Names & Meanings

Search our growing database of baby names to find just the right name for your baby or to find out what your own name means!

Celebrity Baby Names

Celebrity baby names are usually not conventional, but some of them become popular. Here is our growing list of celebrity baby names.

Celebrity Baby Names

Naming Your Baby

Picking a name is one of the most important things you will do for your child, so why not take some time to look through our collection of baby naming resources.

Naming Your Baby

Unusual Baby Names

Unique or unusual baby names are tempting when it is time to name your child; however, you should also be aware of the pitfalls that a unique name might have.

Unusual Baby Names

Biblical Baby Names

Biblical names are some of the most widely used names, and for good reason. The tradition and history behind these names makes them a great choice!

Biblical Baby Names

Types of Baby Names

The baby name collection on this site is constantly evolving, and a good way to browse through our database is selecting the type of name you are interested in.

Types of Baby Names