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Cathy Girl

Popularity: #930 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationKATH-ee / ˈkæθ.i

English; Greek

Meaning

Pure; innocent (Greek)

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Cathy is derived from the Greek name Aikaterine, which is believed to have originated from the Greek word "katharos," meaning "pure." This name was later adopted into Latin as Catharina and subsequently made its way into Old French as Catherine. The English form, Cathy, emerged as a diminutive or affectionate variant of Catherine, particularly gaining traction in the 20th century as a standalone name. The transition from Aikaterine to Cathy reflects a common linguistic evolution where longer names are shortened for ease of use and familiarity.

Historically, the name Catherine has significant milestones, particularly through its association with various saints. One of the most notable figures is Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a Christian martyr from the 4th century, who became a symbol of wisdom and learning. Her feast day is celebrated on November 25, and she has been venerated in both the Eastern and Western Christian traditions. The name gained further prominence through the influence of royal figures, such as Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII of England, and Catherine the Great, the Empress of Russia in the 18th century, who played pivotal roles in their respective histories.

Cathy, as a derivative of Catherine, carries with it the cultural resonance of purity and strength, often associated with the virtues of its historical namesakes. The name has been used in various literary and artistic contexts, reinforcing its enduring appeal. Additionally, the diminutive form Cathy has been embraced in popular culture, often evoking warmth and familiarity. Overall, the name's journey from its Greek roots through various linguistic transformations highlights its rich historical and cultural significance.

Trend Summary

Cathy experienced a peak in popularity in the mid-20th century but has since declined in usage.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Kathy
  • Catie
  • Cathe

International Variants

  • Cathy (English)
  • Cati (Catalan)
  • Kathy (English)

Famous people named Cathy

Cathy Bates is an actress best known for Misery, Titanic, and About Schmidt.

Cathy Freeman is an athlete best known for winning the gold medal in the 400 meters at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Cathy Guisewite is a cartoonist best known for creating the comic strip Cathy.

Cathy Yan is a director best known for Birds of Prey, Dead Pigs, and the film's unique visual style.

Fictional characters named Cathy

Cathy is a fictional character from the comic strip Cathy. She is a single woman navigating the challenges of modern life, including relationships and body image.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Cathy was first seen in the United States in 1918. Cathy has ranked as high as #73 nationally, which occurred in 1958, and has been most popular in California, Ohio, New York, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Cathy has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Cathy (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 7
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19185
19198
19205
19217
19225
19238
192413
192512
192617
192717
192820
192914
193025
193124
193229
193335
193447
193560
193653
193772
193889
1939144
1940195
1941312
1942483
1943606
1944680
1945824
19461,623
19472,859
19483,561
19494,407
19505,031
19515,697
19527,011
19537,300
19547,207
19558,665
195610,132
195710,325
195810,942
195910,408
19609,134
19618,208
19627,145
19636,319
19645,502
19654,151
19663,421
19672,825
19682,400
19692,520
19702,586
19712,270
19721,737
19731,435
19741,167
1975970
1976809
1977743
1978639
1979587
1980567
1981534
1982486
1983371
1984372
1985362
1986273
1987246
1988227
1989224
1990209
1991210
1992186
1993153
1994164
1995141
1996129
1997133
1998124
1999116
2000119
2001120
200293
2003103
2004104
200593
200688
200779
200861
200956
201052
201147
201256
201359
201448
201564
201653
201731
201844
201930
202032
202122
202220
202325
202420