Names That Mean Pure

Technically a boy's name, but certainly one that would work in the Western culture for a girl, especially after the release of Black Panther, in which it was the name of Lupita Nyong'o's fiery character. Nakia lies outside the Top 1000 but is among the fastest-rising names for both girls and boys.

This international variation was publicized by Olympic skater Ekaterina Gordeeva.

A Latinized form of Kleanthes, this name is best associated with literary and poetry critic, Cleanth Brooks.

Not related to Zack, Zacky, Zachary, or Zachariah – but many will assume it is.

A great middle name option to honor a Kathryn. Coco Rocha used it for her daughter Iley's middle name.

Keke is a multicultural double-punch nickname, notably borne by actress Keke Palmer. Palmer was born Lauren Keyana, yet her nickname does not derive from her middle name — her older sister had an imaginary friend named Keke.

Yochanan Ben Zakkai is a prominent figure in Jewish history.

The soft and pretty name of one of the wives of the Prophet Muhammad.

Strong cross-cultural name that could be a feminine spin on the Zachary family.

Tahira is a pretty Arabic virtue name, unusual yet accessible.

Kalena is one of those names that has a pleasant-if-synthetic feel. Research turns up a range of origins and meanings, but the most reliable peg it as a derivation of Katherine.

Glenys, like Glynis, is a Welsh name that has never caught on outside Wales.

A possible Born Again name -- Amen -- in the same class as the still-popular Nevaeh (that's Heaven spelled backwards) and Trinity.

Katharina is an attractive form of Katherine and a great way to update a classic. But English speakers may want to choose the Katerina or Katarina spelling to avoid pronunciation confusion.

Uncommon nickname for Katherine.

One of the most popular nicknames of the fifties and sixties -- and who could forget the romantic heroine of "Wuthering Heights"? -- now largely ignored in favor of Cate or Kate.

The sweet and simple Welsh form of Katherine, long popular in Wales but dropping down the popularity charts now. As a German name, it's a short form of Katharina.

Time was, even C-starting Catherines who called themselves Kate spelled it with a K, but Cate Blanchett changed all. Cate is now as acceptable as (but not as well used as) Kate. Cait might be short for Caitlin.

Turkish word name commonly seen in the doubled-barreled first name Ömer Halis.

Countless notable figures from Polish history, and one America's Next Top Model contestant, have used this version of Catherine, made extra spicy by that "zy." Those interested in honoring a relative with the name might want to consider Kasia, Katarzyna's lovely (and much more English-friendly) nickname.