Kathleen is a popular feminine given name that has been in use for over a century. It is a timeless name that has remained relevant even in modern times. This article will explore the meaning, origin, and other interesting facts about the name Kathleen.
What Is the Meaning of the Name Kathleen?
The name Kathleen means “pure” or “clear.” It is derived from the Greek name Katarina, which means the same thing. The name can also be spelled as Cathleen, Kathlene, or Katelin.
Who Can Have the Name Kathleen?
Anyone can have the name Kathleen. It is a unisex name that can be given to both boys and girls. However, it is more commonly used as a feminine name.
When Was the Name Kathleen First Used?
The name Kathleen first appeared in the United States in the late 19th century. It gained popularity in the early 20th century and reached its peak in the 1940s. It has since declined in popularity but is still a well-known name today.
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How to Pronounce the Name Kathleen?
The name Kathleen is pronounced as kath-leen. The stress is on the second syllable.
Pros and Cons of Having the Name Kathleen
Pros
- Timeless: The name has stood the test of time and remains relevant today.
- Easy to Spell: Kathleen is easy to spell and pronounce, making it a convenient name for children to learn to write and say.
- Namesakes: There are many notable people with the name Kathleen, including Kathleen Turner, Kathleen Kennedy, and Kathleen Hanna.
Cons
- Popularity: The name was very popular during its peak, meaning there may be multiple people with the same name in a person’s social circle or workplace.
- Overused: As the name has been in use for over a century, some may consider it overused or old-fashioned.
Alternatives to the Name Kathleen
If you are looking for alternatives to the name Kathleen, here are some similar names you may consider:
- Katherine
- Katelyn
- Katrina
- Caitlin
Step by Step Guide on How to Choose a Name Like Kathleen
Choosing a name can be overwhelming, especially for new parents. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to choose a name like Kathleen:
- Research: Look up different names and their meanings.
- Consider Family Names: Consider using a family name or incorporating it into the chosen name.
- Say It Out Loud: Test the name by saying it out loud to see how it sounds.
- Check Popularity: Check how popular the name is to avoid choosing a name that may be too common.
How Does the Name Kathleen Compare to Other Names?
The name Kathleen is similar to other names that have the same meaning, such as Katherine, Karen, and Caitlin. However, it is unique in its own way and has stood the test of time.
Tips for Naming Your Child Kathleen
Here are some tips for naming your child Kathleen:
- Consider the Name’s Meaning: Consider the name’s meaning and whether it has any significance to you or your family.
- Think About Nicknames: Consider potential nicknames for the name, such as Kate or Kathy.
- Spell It Correctly: Ensure the name is spelled correctly and consistently to avoid confusion.
The Best Middle Names to Pair With Kathleen
Here are some middle names that pair well with Kathleen:
- Marie
- Elizabeth
- Rose
- Ann
Conclusion
Kathleen is a timeless name that has remained relevant for over a century. It means “pure” or “clear” and is derived from the Greek name Katarina. Despite its popularity during its peak, it remains a well-known name today that can be given to both boys and girls.
FAQs
- What is the origin of the name Kathleen?
- The name Kathleen is derived from the Greek name Katarina, which means “pure” or “clear.”
- Is Kathleen a popular name?
- While it was very popular during its peak, it has since declined in popularity but remains well-known today.
- Can Kathleen be spelled differently?
- Yes, the name can also be spelled as Cathleen, Kathlene, or Katelin.
- What are some similar names to Kathleen?
- Similar names include Katherine, Katelyn, Katrina, and Caitlin.
- What are some good middle names for Kathleen?
- Some good middle names for Kathleen include Marie, Elizabeth, Rose, and Ann.# Stop Article
Thank you for reading this article on the meaning and origin of the name Kathleen. We hope you found it informative and helpful in your search for the perfect name. Remember to consider the name’s meaning, pronunciation, and popularity when choosing a name for your child.
If you have any additional questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. We would be happy to assist you in any way we can.

We’re Emma Carole Paradis and Kimberly Carole, the owners and designers of Impeccable Nest, based in Bedford, New Hampshire. A mother-daughter team with a love of design. Originally from Manhattan Beach, California, now based in Bedford, New Hampshire, we bring a Southern California cool and New England tradition to our design. Not only do we work together…we also live together in a multi-generational home…and a home that they are known to design for others.