Meaning & History
Katariina is a Finnish and Estonian feminine given name, a cognate of Katherine.
Etymology
The name ultimately derives from the Greek name Αἰκατερίνη (Aikaterine), whose etymology is debated. It may be linked to the goddess Hecate, or to the Greek word αἰκία (aikia) meaning "torture." Early Christians associated it with the Greek word καθαρός (katharos) meaning "pure," leading to the spelling Katharina in Latin. The name was borne by Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a 4th-century martyr who was tortured on a spoked wheel.
Notable Bearers
Notable people named Katariina include: Katariina Lahti (born 1949), Finnish film director and screenwriter; Katariina Pantila (1981–2010), Finnish nurse and convicted murderer; Katariina Ratasepp (born 1986), Estonian actress; Katariina Souri (born 1968), Finnish author, artist, model; Katariina Tuohimaa (born 1988), Finnish tennis player; and Katariina Unt (born 1971), Estonian actress.
Cultural Significance
Katariina is a Finnish and Estonian variant of the widespread name Katherine/Kate, with related forms including Katriina (Finnish variant) and Kadri (Estonian), Katrin (Estonian), and diminutives like Iina, Kaija, Kaisa, Kata, Kati, and Katri.
- Meaning: Pure (folk etymology associated with the name)
- Origin: Greek, via Latin Katharina
- Type: First name
- Usage regions: Finland, Estonia
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Katariina (given name)