Kathaleen is a unique and distinctive name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish given name Caitlín, which means "pure" or "clear." The name has been popular in Ireland for centuries, but it is less common elsewhere.
The name Kathaleen is believed to have originated from the ancient Celtic goddess Cathla, who was associated with fire and the hearth. This association gives the name a strong and powerful meaning.
In Irish mythology, there are several characters named Caitlín or its variants, such as Caitlín ni Mhathghamhna, a legendary warrior queen. This may have contributed to the name's enduring popularity in Ireland.
Today, Kathaleen is still considered a beautiful and unique name, often chosen by parents who want to give their daughter a distinctive name with a rich history. Despite its Irish origins, Kathaleen has gained popularity around the world, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States and Canada. However, it remains relatively rare compared to more common names like Catherine or Kathleen.
In summary, Kathaleen is an Irish name meaning "pure" or "clear," derived from the ancient Celtic goddess Cathla. It has a rich history and mythology behind it, making it a powerful and unique choice for a daughter's name.
The name Kathaleen has been given to a total of 4,136 babies born in the United States since 1902, according to available records. The popularity of this name has varied over time, with peaks and troughs in its usage.
From 1902 to 1945, Kathaleen was given to an average of around 20-30 babies each year. However, starting from 1946, there was a significant increase in the number of babies named Kathaleen, with over 70 births recorded in that year alone. This trend continued throughout the late 1940s and early 1950s, with over 100 births per year during this period.
Interestingly, despite its initial popularity, the name Kathaleen began to decline in usage after the mid-1950s. By the 1960s, fewer than 70 babies were named Kathaleen each year, and this trend continued into the 1970s and beyond.
In more recent years, there have been sporadic instances of babies being named Kathaleen, with around 5-10 births recorded between 2001 and 2008. However, it is clear that Kathaleen is no longer a popular choice for baby girls in the United States today.
Overall, while Kathaleen was once a relatively common name, its usage has declined significantly over time. Nonetheless, with over 4,000 babies having been given this name since 1902, it remains an important part of American naming history.