Catalina is a charming and distinctive name of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Latin word 'catullus', which means 'little cat'. The name has been popular among Spanish-speaking communities for centuries, with its earliest records dating back to medieval times.
The name Catalina was especially prominent during the Middle Ages in Spain. It was often given to girls born around the Feast of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, who was a martyr and one of the most celebrated saints in Christianity. As such, the name Catalina became strongly associated with faith and virtue throughout Spanish history.
One notable figure named Catalina is Catherine of Aragon (1485-1536), the first wife of England's King Henry VIII. Born as Catalina in Spain, she later married Arthur Tudor, Prince of Wales, before becoming queen consort of England upon marrying his brother Henry VIII. Her story has contributed to the enduring popularity of the name Catalina among English speakers.
Today, Catalina continues to be a beloved choice for parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their daughters. Its Spanish origins add an exotic touch, while its historical significance lends it an air of timelessness and elegance. Whether whispered softly or exclaimed loudly, the name Catalina possesses a certain je ne sais quoi that sets it apart from other girl's names.
These statistics show that the name Catalina has seen significant fluctuations in popularity over time, with a noticeable trend towards increased usage since around the year 2000. From 1893 to 1973, there were typically fewer than 100 births per year with this name. Starting from 1974, however, there is a steady increase in popularity, reaching over 500 births per year by the late 1990s. This trend continues into the 21st century, peaking at 1951 births in 2022 and 1928 births in 2023, indicating that Catalina is currently one of the most popular names for newborn girls.