All about the name
Caitlin
Female
« Caitlin is a popular Irish girls' name derived from the ancient Gaelic word 'caitlín', meaning 'pure' or 'maiden'. It originated as a diminutive of Catherine but has since become established as a name in its own right, known for its sense of innocence and cultural significance. »
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Meaning, origin, history
Caitlin is a name of Irish origin, derived from the ancient Gaelic word "caitlín", which means "pure" or "maiden". It is thought to have originated as a diminutive form of the name Catherine, but over time it has become established as a name in its own right.
The popularity of the name Caitlin can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when it was commonly used among the Irish nobility. However, it was not until the 20th century that the name began to gain widespread recognition outside of Ireland. In the United States, for example, the name Caitlin became particularly popular in the 1980s and 1990s, reaching its peak popularity in 1996 when it was the sixth most commonly given name to baby girls that year.
Today, Caitlin remains a popular choice among parents looking for a unique yet approachable name for their daughter. Its meaning of "pure" or "maiden" gives it a sense of innocence and purity, while its Irish origins add a touch of cultural significance and history. Despite its popularity, however, the name Caitlin still retains a certain uniqueness and individuality that sets it apart from many other commonly used names.
In literature and popular culture, the name Caitlin has been used in a variety of contexts. One notable example is Caitlin Moran, the British journalist and author who gained fame for her column in The Times and her memoir "How to Build a Girl". Other famous figures with the name Caitlin include Caitlin Carter, an American actress known for her role on the television show "Babylon 5", and Caitlin Upton, an American model and beauty queen who was named Miss Teen USA in 2007.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Caitlin since 1880
Total births
111,944
Total since 1880
Peak year
1988
7,246 births
in 2023
80
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-69%
↘
vs previous 5 years