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Kaitlin

Girl name · 607 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Kaitlin: 607 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 63 births in 1998.

Kaitlin is a variant of Katherine, ultimately from the Greek *Aikaterinē*, with a meaning long linked to *katharos* (“pure”). The name became widespread through early Christian saints, most notably Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a 4th-century martyr revered for her wisdom and piety. As a Gaelic form, Caitlin emerged in Ireland and Scotland, while the specific “Kaitlin” spelling rose to prominence in the late 20th century, partly influenced by the actress Kaitlin Olson, best known for her comedy role on *It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia*. The name shares its root with the historic town of Kettering in England, though the connection is indirect. In Scotland, Kaitlin has proven notably popular since the 1990s, often chosen for its lyrical, modern twist on a timeless classic.