Pure
A variant of Catherine, which is derived from the Greek name Aikaterine. The etymology is debated but is most commonly associated with the Greek word 'katharos', meaning pure. This specific spelling was notably used by the influential 19th-century educator Catharine Beecher.
Fewer than 5 girls were named Catharine in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
American educator and author who promoted female education
American novelist of the early 19th century
English Whig historian and political writer
English novelist, dramatist, and philosopher
Wife of Revolutionary War general Nathanael Greene
