Origin and Meaning of Cathleen

Pure

Origin: Irish - Cathleen is a variant of Caitlín, which is the Irish form of Catherine, deriving from the Greek name Aikaterine, whose meaning is often associated with 'pure'.

• Cathleen gained popularity during the early to mid-20th century, especially in English-speaking countries.
• The name is primarily used in Ireland but has also been embraced in other English-speaking regions, particularly among those with Irish heritage.
• Notable figures include Cathleen ni Houlihan, a figure in Irish nationalist folklore symbolizing Ireland as a woman.
• The name saw a significant peak in popularity in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s.
• Variations of Cathleen include Kathleen, Caitlin, and Katelyn, each with its own unique spelling and usage.