Saints Names, British Names, English Names, Royal Names, Celebrity Names

English speaking countries

From the Greek Aikaterine of uncertain origin, but associated with the Greek 'katharos' (pure). The name Katherine has been popular since the Dark Ages, and was used by many European royal families over the centuries.

Katherine Swynford was the mistress and later wife of English prince John of Gaunt. It was through her line that Henry VII claimed royal blood and his right to be king. Her story was told in Anya Seton's novel 'Katherine'.

Other famous bearers include actress Katherine Heigl, Katherine Hepburn, singer Katherine Jenkins, 17th century poet Katherine Philips, and former Treasurer of the United States Katherine Ortega.