Kathrin is a feminine given name of German origin. It is a variant spelling of the name Katherine, which itself has Greek roots. The name Katherine is derived from the Greek word 'katharos', meaning 'pure' or 'clear'. Therefore, Kathrin can be translated to mean 'pure' or 'clear'.
The name Katherine has been popular throughout history, with several notable figures bearing this name. Saint Catherine of Alexandria was a 4th-century Christian martyr who is celebrated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. She is said to have suffered many tortures and eventually died on the wheel. Her legend inspired numerous works of art and literature during the Middle Ages.
In more recent times, Kathrin has been used as a given name in various countries around the world. For example, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel's full name is Angela Dorothea Merkel, with 'Dorothea' being another form of Katherine. This demonstrates how the name Kathrin has evolved and adapted over time.
Overall, Kathrin is a classic feminine name with a rich history that dates back to ancient Greece. Its meaning, which conveys purity or clarity, makes it a meaningful choice for parents looking for a name with substance. Despite its historical roots, Kathrin remains a popular choice today and continues to be associated with strength and grace, as evidenced by figures like Saint Catherine of Alexandria and Angela Merkel.
The name Kathrin has been used consistently over the years in the United States, with a total of 1,214 babies being born with this name since 1914.
From 1914 to 1960, there were fluctuations in the number of births per year. The highest number of births during this period was 26 in 1952 and 1954. However, from 1970 onwards, the popularity of the name Kathrin began to rise significantly.
In the 1980s and 1990s, there were consistently over 10 births per year for this name. The highest number of births during these decades was 36 in 1990.
Despite a slight dip in popularity after 2000, with fewer than 10 births per year from 2005 to 2011, the name Kathrin has remained present in recent years. In fact, there were still 6 births in 2013 and 5 births in 2021.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Kathrin may have fluctuated over time, it has maintained a consistent presence throughout the decades.