Caitlyn

Meaning of Caitlyn

Caitlyn (pronounced KAYT-lin) is the modern, sun-splashed spin on the Irish Caitlín—the Gaelic cousin of Katherine that carries the evergreen meaning “pure.” Arriving quietly on U.S. birth certificates in the 1970s, Caitlyn rode a friendly wave of creative spellings through the ’80s and ’90s, dancing all the way into the Top 150 at the turn of the millennium before settling into today’s cozier niche. Its charm lies in that sweet spot between familiar and fresh: instantly recognizable, yet sprinkled with just enough Celtic stardust to feel special. The name nods to St. Catherine’s centuries-old legacy of courage and intellect, while pop-culture Katies and Kates add a dash of everyday approachability. Parents drawn to Caitlyn often imagine a daughter with a clear laugh, an independent streak, and a heart that plays fair—no extra y’s or silent h’s required. In short, Caitlyn offers a walk along a well-loved path that still manages to reveal a hidden wildflower or two.