Cathleen is a feminine given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish name Caitlín, which in turn comes from the ancient Gaelic name Cailleach, meaning "old woman" or "veiled one". The name has been associated with the Tuatha Dé Danann, the mythical pre-Christian Celtic race of Ireland, and was also borne by several historical figures, including Cathleen ni Houlihan, a legendary figure in Irish folklore who represented Ireland itself. Despite its meaning, Cathleen is often interpreted as being associated with youthfulness and beauty due to its sound and appearance. Today, it remains a popular name among Irish families and those interested in Celtic culture.
The name Catheleen has been given to a total of 61 babies born in the United States over the years. The peak popularity of this name occurred between 1957 and 1958 when there were 7 births each year. Interestingly, the years with the highest number of births are consecutive, suggesting that Catheleen might have been a popular choice for parents during this time period. However, it is important to note that this name has never been among the top 1000 names given to babies born in the United States. This means that Catheleen is quite rare and unique compared to other names chosen by parents for their children. Despite its rarity, the name Catheleen has a certain charm and distinction due to its limited use over time.