Catherina

1. Home
2. Girl Names
3. Catherina

What does the baby name Catherina mean? Learn about what Catherina means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Catherina - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Catherina

C-A-T-H-E-R-I-N-A, is a 9-letter female given name.

Pronunciation of Catherina

kah tah REE nah

Meaning of Catherina

Pure, virginal.

Origin of Catherina

The name 'Catherina' has a rich and diverse history. It finds its roots in the Greek name 'Aikaterine', which itself is derived from the earlier Greek name 'Hekaterine'. The earliest known use of this name dates back to ancient Greece, where it gained popularity due to its association with the Greek goddess Hecate. Hecate was revered as the goddess of magic, witchcraft, and crossroads, making 'Catherina' a name with mystical connotations.

Greek Names

Spanish Names

Popularity of Catherina

Over the centuries, the popularity of the name 'Catherina' has experienced both ebbs and flows. In the medieval period, it enjoyed a surge in popularity, particularly in Europe. However, its usage declined during the Renaissance era, only to resurface in the 19th century. Notable spikes in usage occurred during the Victorian era, where it was favored by the upper classes. Today, while not as common as some other names, 'Catherina' still retains its charm and elegance.

Catherina currently has 1 like, and is in the top 21% of liked girl's names. The name Abeke is slightly more popular than Catherina.

Vote for Catherina

Etymology of Catherina

To truly understand the essence of a name, we must delve into its linguistic roots. 'Catherina' is derived from the Greek name 'Aikaterine', which has been traced back to the Greek words 'katharos' and 'katharizo', meaning 'pure' and 'to purify' respectively. This etymology suggests that individuals bearing the name 'Catherina' possess qualities of purity, cleanliness, and moral integrity.

Cultural Significance of Catherina

The name 'Catherina' holds particular cultural significance in various contexts. In Christian traditions, it is associated with Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a highly revered figure known for her intelligence, piety, and strong will. In art and literature, Catherine has been portrayed as a symbol of beauty, wisdom, and resilience. Furthermore, the name has found its way into popular culture, with numerous songs, books, and movies featuring characters named 'Catherina', further solidifying its cultural significance.