From the Greek name Aikaterine. The etymology is debated: it could derive from the ancient Greek name Hekaterine, which came from hekateros 'each of the two'; it could be related to Greek 'aikia' - 'torture'; or it could be from a Coptic name meaning 'my consecration of your name'. The Romans falsely derived it from Greek 'katharos'† 'pure' and changed their spelling from Katerina to Katharina to reflect this.

This name was also borne by two empresses of Russia, including Catherine the Great, and by three of Henry VIII's wives.

Emotional spectrum: sadness is soon overcome by joy with Ekaterina. A solid family background keeps her on solid moral ground.