Catherine
Catherine comes from the Greek "Aikaterine," of uncertain origin. The most popular theory traces it to "katharos," meaning pure. Saint Catherine of Alexandria was, according to legend, a 4th-century scholar and martyr who was condemned to death on a spiked wheel (the "Catherine wheel"). The wheel broke at her touch, and she was beheaded instead. Catherine has been one of the most consistently popular female names in Western history. It has been in the US top 1000 every year since 1880, and in the top 200 for most of that time. Catherine the Great (Catherine II of Russia, reigned 1762-1796) modernized Russia and expanded its empire; Catherine de Medici was queen of France in the 16th century; Catherine of Aragon was the first wife of Henry VIII. What I find striking is the name's range. Catherine can be Catherine (formal), Cathy (mid-century friendly), Cat (modern short), Kate (sleek), Katie (girlish), Kitty (vintage), or Kit (tomboyish). Few names offer such a spectrum. The "C" and "th" together give it a slightly serious sound that balances the softness of the vowels. Catherine is a female name of Greek origin that means "Pure (from Aikaterine)". Versatile, composed, and timeless. The name sounds classic. Catherines tend to be capable. US top 200 for most of the past century. Well-known people named Catherine include Catherine the Great (Russian Empress), Catherine de Medici (Queen of France), Catherine of Aragon (Henry VIII's first wife), Catherine Deneuve (actress). Common variations and related forms of Catherine include Katherine (variant), Katharine (variant), Catarina (Portuguese), Ekaterina (Russian), Caitlin (Irish).