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Christian Name Meaning & Origin Guide

Kateri

Pure One

Pronunciation: kah-TEH-ree (/kɑːtɛri/)

Girl Name Biblical origin Popularity 60
Meaning
Pure One
Origin
Biblical
Lucky Number
9
Lucky Day
Saturday
Lucky Stone
Amethyst
Life Path
6
Popularity Score
60
Language
English, Greek, Latin
Lucky Colors: WhiteGold

What does Kateri mean?

Kateri Tekakwitha, also known as Catherine Tekakwitha or Kateri, was a Mohawk–Tuscarora woman born in 1656. She was born into a Christian family, but her mother died shortly after her birth, and her father remarried and raised her as a pagan. She was later influenced by the Jesuit missionaries in her community and embraced Christianity. Kateri is known for her purity, courage, and faith.

Kateri in other languages & scripts

Hebrew
קתרית
טהורה ונקיה, שמות נרדפות לניקיון ולטהרה
Greek
Κατερίνη
Καθαρή και αγνή, έννοια συσχετιζόμενη με την αγνότητα
Latin
Caterina
Pure and chaste, associated with moral cleanliness
English
Kateri
Pure, chaste, and clean, symbolizing moral integrity

How to pronounce Kateri

English pronunciation
kah-TEH-ree
IPA notation
/kɑːtɛri/

Numerology & personality

Nurturer and healer. Gives comfort and support to others.

Associated Traits
CompassionateGentleS = Sensitive

Spiritual & cultural context

Symbol of purity and faith.

Kateri's life story is a testament to the assimilation and interaction of different cultures during the colonial period in North America. Her legacy as the first Native American woman to be canonized (1980) represents the successful blending of Christianity and indigenous traditions, making her an inspiring figure for both Native American and Christian communities.

Scriptural & traditional roots

Saint connection: Saint Kateri Tekakwitha

Popularity of Kateri by region

Region Country Score Year
Poland PL 61 2024
United Kingdom UK 56 2024
Spain ES 48 2024
France FR 79 2024

Spelling variations of Kateri

Cateri

Names similar to Kateri

Frequently asked questions about Kateri

What does Kateri mean?
The name Kateri means 'Pure One' in the Mohawk–Tuscarora language.
Is Kateri a Christianity name?
Yes, Kateri is a Christian name, as she is a recognized saint in the Catholic Church.
How to pronounce Kateri?
The name Kateri is pronounced kah-teh-ree.
Is Kateri popular today?
While Kateri is not a commonly used name today, it holds historical and cultural significance for those of Mohawk–Tuscarora and Christian backgrounds.
What is the origin of Kateri?
Kateri Tekakwitha was born in 1656 to a Christian family in the Mohawk–Tuscarora community. She was raised as a pagan but later embraced Christianity, becoming a recognized saint in the Catholic Church.