Cathryn

Cathryn is an English variant spelling of Catherine, itself derived from the Greek name Aikaterine, whose root meaning is debated but is most commonly associated with the Greek word katharos, meaning pure or clean. The name gained enormous popularity throughout medieval Europe largely through the veneration of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a fourth-century martyr. It spread further via Saint Catherine of Siena, a prominent medieval mystic and Doctor of the Church. Related forms include Katherine, Kathryn, Katharine, Katarina, and the French Catherine.