Katharina

Katharina is the German and Scandinavian form of the Latin Catharina, itself derived from the Greek name Aikaterine, whose precise root remains debated but is commonly associated with the Greek word katharos, meaning pure or clean. The name gained widespread use across medieval Europe largely through the fame of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a fourth-century martyr venerated throughout Christendom, and later through Saint Catherine of Siena. Notable historical bearers include Katharina von Bora, the former nun who married Martin Luther, and Catherine the Great of Russia. Related forms include Katherine, Katarina, Katerina, and Katarzyna.