A 1950s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Cathlyn since 1923
Babies named Cathlyn per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 5 |
| 1930s | 0 |
| 1940s | 52 |
| 1950s | 105 |
| 1960s | 44 |
| 1970s | 27 |
| 1980s | 22 |
| 1990s | 52 |
| 2000s | 37 |
| 2010s | 5 |
| 2020s | 12 |
Meaning & origin
Cathlyn first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1923, a modern variant of the classic Irish name Caitlin. After a period of obscurity, it saw a revival in the 1950s, reaching its peak popularity in 1953. In recent years, it has been rising in usage since 2022, though it remains rare and does not rank in the top 1000. This trend mirrors a broader interest in vintage and Celtic-inspired names. Despite its low frequency, Cathlyn offers a familiar sound with a distinct spelling, appealing to parents seeking a name that feels both traditional and unique.
Cathlyn is a modern respelling of Caitlin, the Irish Gaelic form of Catherine. Catherine ultimately derives from the Greek name Aikaterine, whose meaning is debated but commonly associated with katharos ('pure'). The name entered Irish usage through the Anglo-Norman invasion, and the spelling Cathlyn emerged in the 20th century as a variant aiming for a simplified or more phonetic English rendering.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Cathy, Cath, Lyn
Sibling names for Cathlyn
Names that share Cathlyn's style, for a brother or sister.
