Kathleen vs Melissa
Comparing Kathleen and Melissa? Both are popular picks for parents in 2026. Kathleen ranks in the Top 100 tier and traces to Irish naming roots (meaning "Pure"). Melissa sits in the Top 100 tier with Greek origins (meaning "Honey bee").
Kathleen
- Meaning: Pure
- Origin: Irish
- Popularity (2026): Top 100
- Full Kathleen name page
Melissa
- Meaning: Honey bee
- Origin: Greek
- Popularity (2026): Top 100
- Full Melissa name page
Which name is more popular: Kathleen or Melissa?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Kathleen ranks higher (Top 100) than Melissa (Top 100).