Caitlin
/ˈkæt.lɪn/noun
A feminine given name, an Irish form of Caitlín, traditionally related to Katherine or Catherine.
Did you know?The ultimate origin of Katherine—and therefore Caitlin—is uncertain: its traditional connection with Greek katharos, “pure,” may be a later reinterpretation rather than the original meaning.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Aikaterinē
“The ancient name later rendered as Katherine; its original meaning is uncertain.”
Late Antiquity
Latin
Catharina
“Latin form of the Greek name, increasingly associated with katharos, “pure.””
Medieval Latin
Latin
Katerina
“A widespread Christian female name, especially associated with Saint Catherine of Alexandria.”
Middle Irish
Irish
Caitríona
“Irish adaptation of Katherine/Catherine.”
Early Modern Irish
Irish
Caitlín
“A diminutive or familiar Irish form of Caitríona.”
Modern English
English
Caitlin
“An English spelling of the Irish given name Caitlín.”