English from Greek "pure". Introduced into Scotland in the 13th century by returning Crusaders.

The main spellings in the 1841 Census of Aberdeenshire are Catharine [25%], Catherine [60%], Katharine [4%], Katherine [4%]. There are many other variations in spelling. Those occurring more frequently in the 1841 Census of Aberdeenshire are shown under Catherine [q.v.]. In the 1851 Census of Rathen, there is a very high proportion of Catherine [70%] and Cathrine [25%] with no significant other spelling; this may reflect the preferences of the enumerators for that parish.

The FreeREG list of Latin names used in old documents shows Catalina as being the equivalent of Catherine and Catherina/Katherina/Katalina being the equivalent of Katherine. We are not convinced that such subtle differentiation is entirely consistent. Whatever the truth of it, care is needed when searching old documents as clearly there will be some variation in the names, even as there is today. Use truncated names [e.g. Catherin*] to avoid difficulties with Latin case endings.

Kitty has been found as an occasional pet name.

Note Some details, where specific, are included under Katharine, Catherine and Catharine but, as in the Oxford Names Companion, we have given the most complete set of relationships under Katherine [q.v.].