National Kathleen Day is celebrated on January 13 every year in honor of a name that might sound too mature and dignified. Suppose you take a second to think about the Kathleen’s you know. Chances are they are more mature, exceptionally groomed, and established women who are professional and eccentric in their own right. Many grandmas are named Kathleen as it was a popular name in their time, and today when you meet Kathleen, you may be surprised by her wit, lust for life, and creative streak. Read on to discover everything you want to know about this name.
History of National Kathleen Day
Kathleen is a girl’s name of Irish origin that means pure. It’s an early Irish import version that came between Katherine and Kaitlin, and it’s been so long that it’s nearly starting to seem new again. Martie Maguire, one of the hip Dixie Chicks, chose it as a surprise. Kathleen was a Top 10 name from 1948 to 1951, and it inspired countless classic romantic songs, including “I’ll Take You Home Again, Kathleen,” made famous by Elvis Presley.
It’s a given name that is popular in both English and Irish-speaking communities. Caitlin, the Irish form of Cateline, which was the Old French form of Catherine, is sometimes spelled ‘Cathleen.’ It is derived from the Greek name Aikaterine, the meaning of which is debatable. As years passed, Kathleen was the eighth most prevalent girls’ name in Ireland in 1911, but it had fallen to number 18 by 1965. Kathleen Ni Houlihan first emerged in Irish lyrics in the eighteenth century to symbolize Ireland’s quest for freedom. And Kathleen was the birth name of Kathy Griffin and Kate Walsh, and it is also J.K. Rowling’s adopted middle name, named after her paternal grandmother.
To many, Kathleen is a sweet and caring soul who strives to spend as much time as possible with her friends and family. She is usually the type of girl you can explain your concerns to, and she will try her hardest to understand. She is also a highly witty girl with a cheerful attitude who makes friends while being outspoken. It’s in your best interest to know at least one Kathleen.
National Kathleen Day timeline
William Butler Yeats publishes “The Countess Kathleen and Various Legends and Lyrics.”
Kathleen Best becomes the first director of Women’s Royal Australian Army Corps, making history.
Joanne Kathleen, also known as J. K. Rowling, a U.K. author of “Harry Potter” is born.
Kathleen Hall Jamieson provides a new tool to interpret political campaigns with, “Dirty Politics.”
National Kathleen Day FAQs
Is Kathleen a Catholic name?
In Ventry Village, Ireland, there is a Saint Kathleen Catholic Church. Because Catholic churches are sometimes named after saints, this church could have been named for Saint Kathleen.
What religion is J.K. Rowling?
J.K. Rowling characterizes herself as a Christian.
Who is Kathleen Turner?
Kathleen Turner has one of the most recognizable voices in show business: deep, booming, and scratchy as a cheese grater. In terms of singing, her stentorian timbre qualifies her as a baritone.
National Kathleen Day Activities
Gift a child the “Harry Potter” book series
The “Harry Potter” book series is a favorite among many. So, buy this book collection, wrap it nicely and give it as a gift.
Read up on politics
Read about Kathleen Jamieson, an American professor, and political analyst, who inspires people to learn more about the political system in the U.S. It will prove to be a worthwhile read.
Discover the works of W. B. Yeats
William Butler Yeats was an Irish poet and was regarded as one of the most essential personalities in twentieth-century literature. He was a driving influence behind the Irish Literary Revival and became a pillar of the Irish literary elite, helping to found the Abbey Theatre.
5 Facts About Joanne Kathleen Rowling
She hid her female given names
Joanne Rowling hoped a gender-neutral name would entice male readers to pick up the books.
She was an average student
Unlike her character, Hermione, Rowling was never regarded as an exceptional student.
She’s the first billionaire female writer
Rowling’s magical works empire has officially made her the first female billionaire.
She loves Jane Austen’s work
Rowling’s been a voracious reader; she’s immersed in established works by great novelists.
She never gave up
“Harry Potter” manuscript was rejected 12 times before “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.”
Why We Love National Kathleen Day
Pays homage to a literary icon
The day gives us an excuse to celebrate iconic Kathleens, like J.K. Rowling, who named herself Kathleen in honor of her grandma and went on to publish the “Harry Potter” books. The fact that this literary icon is named Kathleen should be enough inspiration for others named Kathleen to follow their dreams.
Inspires expecting couples
For couples looking to name their children, classics like Kathleen stand the test of time. It may sound like a name you won’t necessarily associate with a baby, but she will live up to it when she grows up.
It’s a name associated with dignity
Women named Kathleen seem ageless and have what some consider old souls from a young age. That’s just one of the things we love about people named Kathleen and why we choose to celebrate this special name day.
National Kathleen Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 13 | Monday |
| 2026 | January 13 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | January 13 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | January 13 | Thursday |
| 2029 | January 13 | Saturday |
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