Kathleen is a classic yet timeless feminine given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic 'Caitlín', which itself comes from the ancient Celtic 'Cait' meaning pure, along with the diminutive suffix '-ín'. Kathleen was popularized during the 19th century in English-speaking countries due to its usage in Sir Walter Scott's poem 'The Lady of the Lake'. Notable figures who bear this name include Irish playwright and poet Oscar Wilde's wife, Constance Lloyd Wilde, better known as Katharine (Kathleen) Wilde.
"From 1957 to 1959, the name Kathleen was given to six girls each year, resulting in a total of eighteen babies named Kathleen during those three years."