Origin
Derived from the Greek name 'Katherine', which originates from the Greek word 'katharos' meaning 'pure'. The name was popularised in Christian Europe through Saint Catherine of Alexandria and has been carried into English-speaking countries, including Australia, via Latin and Old French influences. Not specifically linked to Aboriginal Australian or Māori languages.
Meaning
The literal translation of 'Katrina' is 'pure' or 'clean'. In the Australian context, it often connotes innocence and clarity, and is associated with classic femininity.
Pronunciation
/kætˈriːnə/ (Australian English pronunciation emphasizes the second syllable, with a long 'ee' sound) , stresses on the second syllable ('ree'). [kat-REE-nuh]
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Katrina
- Catrina
- Katarina (European variant)
- Katerina
Nicknames
- Kat
- Katy
- Rina
Name Days
- 25 November (Feast of Saint Catherine)
- 25 November (Catholic and Anglican traditions)
- Wednesday before the First Sunday in Lent (Māori - Kāreti Rātapu - Saint Catherine's Day observed by some Māori Catholic communities)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with katrina:
- Elizabeth and Katrina
- Sarah and Katrina
- Anna and Katrina
Fun Facts
- Katrina was a popular name in Australia throughout the 1960s and 1970s, often associated with the post-war baby boom.
- The name gained attention internationally with the tragic hurricane Katrina in 2005, which was widely covered in Australian and global media.
- The name appears frequently in Australian literature and pop culture, symbolising grace and resilience.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name katrina:
- Graceful
- Resilient
- Compassionate
- Traditional
- Elegant
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has a classic, gentle aesthetic with rounded lettering and flowing syllables, popular in Australian branding and media for its elegant simplicity.
Geographical Distribution
Most common in urban centres such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Slightly less common in rural and remote areas but recognised nationwide due to media and cultural influence.
Numerological Significance
Name number 7, associated with introspection, spirituality, and analytical thinking, often considered fortunate in astrology for Sagittarius and Pisces signs.
Astrological Connections
Associated with the zodiac signs Sagittarius and Pisces, which value depth, intuition, and spiritual insight. Birth dates within Capricorn to Cancer are seen as harmonising with the name's qualities.
Historical Context
Notable Australian figures include Katrina Laurie (entomologist) and Katrina Hovey (television presenter). The name features in Australian literature and is used for characters in local films and TV shows.
Linguistic Adaptability
Adapts well into various languages with minor spelling changes, such as Katarina (European), Katrin (German), and Katerina (Slavic). In Māori, an approximate adaptation might be Kāreti, though not traditionally used.
Famous People Named katrina
- Katrina Kaif (Indian actress, popular in Australia)
- Katrina Hovey (Australian TV personality)
- Katrina Dawson (Australian lawyer and victim of the 2014 Sydney siege)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 2 |
2017 | 3 |
2015 | 1 |
1993 | 58 |
1992 | 157 |