Katherine is a feminine given name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "katharos," which means pure or clear. The name has been used since ancient times and was popularized by several prominent figures throughout history.
The most notable bearer of the name Katherine was Saint Catherine of Alexandria, who was a Christian martyr in the 4th century. According to legend, she was sentenced to death on the wheel but miraculously survived unharmed. This led to her being associated with the breaking of wheels and chains, making her the patron saint of spinners, weavers, and women in labor.
Over time, Katherine has evolved into several variations, including Kathryn, Catherine, Catherina, Katharine, and Katrina, among others. Each variation has its own unique spelling and pronunciation but shares the same meaning and origin.
In literature, the name Katherine has been used by many notable authors. It is the title character in Shakespeare's play "The Taming of the Shrew," and it was also the given name of the protagonist in Charlotte Brontë's novel "Jane Eyre." Today, Katherine remains a popular choice for parents seeking a classic yet timeless feminine name for their daughters.
Overall, Katherine is a strong and elegant name with a rich history dating back to ancient Greece. Its meaning, pure or clear, makes it an appealing option for those who wish to bestow a name of great significance upon their child.
Statistics on the given name Katherine in the United States from 1958 to 1988 show a fluctuating pattern of popularity:
* In the decade spanning from 1958 to 1968, the name Katherine consistently maintained moderate popularity. Each year saw around five births with this name, indicating that it was a steadily used but not excessively popular choice during this period.
* The late 1970s and early 1980s marked an increase in popularity for the name Katherine. In 1980, there were six births with this name, followed by seven in 1982, and peaking at eight births in 1986. This trend suggests that during these years, the name Katherine experienced a surge in preference among parents.
* The late 1980s saw a slight decline in the popularity of the name Katherine. In 1987, there were six births with this name, and in 1988, it dropped to five births.
Overall, from 1958 to 1988, the name Katherine had a total of 47 births in the United States. This data indicates that while Katherine was not one of the most popular names during these years, it maintained consistent usage and experienced some periods of increased popularity.