Holding steady.
Popularity of Katee since 1974
Babies named Katee per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 46 |
| 1980s | 215 |
| 1990s | 220 |
| 2000s | 129 |
| 2010s | 27 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Katee is a rare modern spelling variant of the classic nickname Katie. While the name Katherine has been a staple for centuries, this particular spelling first appeared in U.S. records in 1974 and saw its peak usage in 1986, with an average of fewer than 5 girls per year receiving the name since then. It is one of many creative respellings that emerged in the late 20th century, appealing to parents seeking a unique twist on a familiar sound. Though it has never cracked the Top 1000 and remains stable in its obscurity, Katee carries the same timeless meaning of 'purity' as its root name Katherine.
Katee is a modern respelling of Katie, a pet form of Katherine. The name Katherine is of Greek origin, derived from 'katharos', meaning 'pure'. It entered English via Latin and French, and has been used since the Middle Ages. The spelling Katee appears to be a 20th-century American innovation, reflecting a trend toward distinctive spellings.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kate
Sibling names for Katee
Names that share Katee's style, for a brother or sister.
