Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Caitlin

      Origin 
      Irish

      Meaning 
      Pure

      Variations 
      Caitlyn, Caitrin, Kaitlin

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Caitlin finds its origins in the Irish language and holds a distinct significance. Derived from the Gaelic term caith which meaningly translates to pure, Caitlin epitomizes this noble virtue. The term pure denotes a sense of innocence, cleanliness, and untainted nature, which encapsulates the essence of this timeless name.

      Caitlin has a profound historical presence, tracing back to ancient Irish folklore and mythology. It is believed to be a variant of the name Catherine, which has its roots in early Christian saints. Over centuries, Caitlin has served as a popular name for women throughout Ireland, and its religious connections have granted it a symbolic significance. Its prevalence in Irish history has only enhanced its allure and ensured its continued usage in modern times.

      In contemporary society, Caitlin remains a prevalent and cherished name. Its melodic and harmonious sound resonates with parents seeking to bestow their child with a timeless yet distinctive identity. The name's Irish heritage adds an air of authenticity, and its meaning of purity continues to hold significance in today's world. Numerous notable individuals, from writers to musicians, bear the name Caitlin, making it an increasingly popular choice for parents seeking a name both rooted in tradition and adaptable to contemporary usage.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Caitlin.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Caitlin.

      Joseph

      is the most common spouse name for Caitlin.

      James

      is the most common child name for Caitlin.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1988 is when there were the most people born with the first name Caitlin.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.