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Caitriona

Girl name · 7 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Caitriona: 7 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 4 births in 2005.

Caitriona is the Irish and Scottish Gaelic form of Katherine, ultimately deriving from the Greek Aikaterine, a name of uncertain origin though often linked to the Greek word katharos, meaning "pure." Perhaps the most celebrated bearer is Caitríona Balfe, the acclaimed Irish actress known for her starring role as Claire Fraser in the television series "Outlander." The name also calls to mind Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a figure whose name shares the same root and who was revered as a symbol of learning and virtue. A notable place connection is the Scottish island of St Kilda, whose etymology is debated but possibly linked to the same saint. While Caitriona is distinct from the English Catherine or the Irish Caitlin, it retains a lyrical, authentically Gaelic feel that has remained a steady, if not common, choice in Scotland—especially among families honouring traditional naming patterns.