The name Catrina has its origins in the Latin language, where it was derived from the name Catharina or Katherina. These names trace their roots back to the Greek name Aikaterine, which in turn comes from the Greek words "katharos," meaning "pure," and "hekatos," meaning "each of the two."

The name Catrina first gained popularity in medieval Europe, particularly in regions where Latin-based languages were spoken. It was often used as a diminutive or pet form of the more formal names Catharina or Katherina. Over time, the name evolved into various spellings and variations across different cultures and languages.

In ancient texts, the name Catrina can be found in records from the Middle Ages, often associated with religious figures or members of noble families. One notable mention is Saint Catharina of Alexandria, a Christian martyr and philosopher who lived in the 4th century AD.

The earliest recorded example of the name Catrina dates back to the 13th century, when it appeared in Italian and Spanish records. Throughout history, several notable women have borne this name:

1. Catrina de' Medici (1593-1629), an Italian noblewoman and member of the powerful Medici family.
2. Catrina Vitturi (1566-1610), an Italian poet and scholar who wrote extensively on religious and philosophical topics.
3. Catrina Alonzo (1778-1842), a Spanish philanthropist and advocate for women's education who founded a school for girls in Madrid.
4. Catrina Ferrer (1835-1905), a Catalan painter and one of the first women to be admitted to the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Barcelona.
5. Catrina Martínez (1902-1988), a Mexican writer and activist who played a significant role in the country's feminist movement in the early 20th century.

While the name Catrina has ancient roots and has been used throughout history, it has also maintained a degree of popularity in modern times, particularly in Spanish-speaking countries and regions with strong Latin cultural influences.