Catarina is a feminine given name of Portuguese origin. It is the female form of the masculine name Catarino, which itself is derived from the Latin word "catus", meaning "pure" or "chaste". The name Catarina has been popular in Portugal and other Portuguese-speaking countries for centuries.
The name was particularly common during the Middle Ages when Saint Catherine of Siena, a Dominican tertiary and Doctor of the Church, lived. She was born in 1347 in Siena, Italy, and is known for her extensive writings on mystical experiences. Her influence helped to spread the use of the name Catarina throughout Europe.
In Portugal, Catarina has been one of the top 20 most popular girls' names since records began in the late 19th century. It was also a popular choice among Portuguese immigrants to Brazil and other parts of South America, where it remains widely used today.
The name Catarina can be shortened to various pet forms such as Cati, Catita, or even just Cat. It is often associated with the nicknames "gatinha" (little cat) in Portugal, reflecting its literal meaning of "pure".
In literature and art, several notable characters have been named Catarina, including the protagonist of Eça de Queiroz's novel "Os Maias", a classic of Portuguese literature. Additionally, there are numerous historical figures named Catarina, such as Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of England's King Henry VIII.
Overall, Catarina is a traditional and historic feminine name with a strong connection to Portugal and its cultural heritage. Its meaning of "pure" or "chaste" has made it a popular choice among parents seeking a name with positive connotations for their daughters.
Based on the statistics provided, we can observe a significant increase in the popularity of the name Catarina in the United States over time.
From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, the number of births with the name Catarina fluctuated between 5 and 18 each year. However, starting around 1980, there was a marked increase in the usage of this name. In 1984, there were 28 births with the name Catarina, which more than doubled to 68 births in 1992.
This trend continued throughout the 1990s and into the 21st century. Between 2000 and 2023, the number of births with the name Catarina ranged from a low of 52 in 2007 to a high of 117 in 2023. This represents an average increase of approximately 4 births per year over this period.
Overall, it is clear that the name Catarina has become increasingly popular in the United States over time. From just a handful of births each year in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the name has grown to be one of the more common names given to newborn girls today.