Kathryn

Kathryn is an English spelling of Katherine, a name with a long history among saints and royalty. It is traditionally associated with the Greek word for “pure,” although the earliest origin of the name is uncertain. That traditional association can matter without being presented as a proven original translation.

Kate, Katie, Kathy, and Kit are familiar shorter forms within the family. Director Kathryn Bigelow and novelist Kathryn Stockett provide contemporary namesakes using this exact spelling. Kathryn removes some letters found in Katherine while preserving the recognizable sound, making the choice of written form especially relevant when honoring a relative with a particular spelling.