Caitriona

Meaning & origin

Caitriona is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of Katherine, a name whose use in Ireland dates back centuries. In the United States, however, it is a relatively modern presence. The name first appeared in Social Security records in 1987, and while it has never been common, its usage has shown a gradual upward trend. As of the most recent data from 2025, Caitriona ranked 14,942, with a frequency of approximately 1 in 321,453 births. The peak year for the name was 2018, and since 2010 its trajectory has been rising, suggesting a steady if modest increase in appeal. Notably, no single state has recorded significantly higher usage, indicating that Caitriona enjoys a diffuse, nationwide presence rather than regional concentration. For parents seeking a distinctly Irish name with deep roots and a lyrical sound, Caitriona offers a connection to Gaelic heritage without being widely used in the United States.

Caitriona is the Irish and Scottish Gaelic form of Katherine, which itself comes from the Greek name Aikaterine. The ultimate meaning of Katherine is disputed, but it has long been associated with the Greek word katharos, meaning 'pure'. The name has been used in Ireland and Scotland for centuries, often anglicized as Catriona.