Kathrine is a feminine given name of Scandinavian origin, particularly popular in Norway and Denmark. It is derived from the Middle Ages name Catherina, which itself comes from the Greek word 'katharos', meaning 'pure' or 'clean'. The name has been associated with purity, innocence, and virtue throughout history.
The name Kathrine first appeared in the early Middle Ages when it was brought to Europe by Catholic missionaries. It quickly became popular among the nobility due to its association with Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a 4th-century Christian virgin martyr whose legend gained widespread popularity during the Crusades. Many variations of the name emerged over time, such as Katherine, Kathryn, and Catherine.
In literature and art, Kathrine has been featured prominently throughout history. She was the subject of numerous religious works, including many paintings by famous artists like Fra Angelico and Carpaccio. In more recent times, notable figures named Kathrine include British actress Katharine Hepburn and American poet Katherine Mansfield.
While Kathrine may have lost some popularity in recent decades, it remains a beloved classic name with a rich history and beautiful meaning. It is often chosen for its timelessness and elegance, as well as its connection to strong historical figures like Saint Catherine of Alexandria.
The name Katherine has a rich history in the United States, with over 15,000 babies being named Katherine between 1880 and 2023.
Looking at the annual statistics, we can see that the popularity of the name Katherine has fluctuated over time. In the late 19th century, there were around 20-30 births per year with the name Katherine. However, in the early 20th century, there was a significant increase in popularity, with over 100 births per year between 1912 and 1924.
The peak of popularity for the name Katherine came in the mid-20th century. Between 1947 and 1959, there were over 180 births per year on average. The highest number of births was recorded in 1956, with 275 babies named Katherine.
After the 1950s, the popularity of the name Katherine began to decline. Between 1960 and 2000, there were around 150-200 births per year on average. However, in recent years, the name Katherine has seen a resurgence in popularity, with over 20 births per year between 2008 and 2014.
Overall, the name Katherine has been a popular choice for parents in the United States for over a century. Despite fluctuations in popularity, it remains a classic and timeless name.