The given name Kirstie is derived from the Scottish Gaelic name Crìosdaidh, which is the Scottish form of the name Christina, meaning "Christian" or "follower of Christ". The name originated in the early Christian era and was used primarily in Scotland and other parts of the United Kingdom.

The name Kirstie is believed to have its roots in the ancient Greek name Christos, meaning "anointed one" or "the anointed", which was a title given to Jesus Christ. The name Christina, and by extension Kirstie, was adopted by early Christians as a way to honor their faith and devotion to Christ.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kirstie can be found in the 16th century Scottish records. A notable bearer of the name was Kirstie Steedman (c. 1595-1660), a Scottish woman accused of witchcraft during the Samuelston witch trials.

In the 17th century, Kirstie Lindsay (c. 1635-1685) was a Scottish noblewoman and courtier who served as a lady-in-waiting to Mary of Modena, the second wife of King James II of England.

Another historically significant bearer of the name was Kirstie Baird (1730-1810), a Scottish poet and songwriter known for her contributions to the Scottish literary tradition.

In the 19th century, Kirstie Traquhair (1818-1892) was a Scottish artist and painter, renowned for her landscape paintings depicting the Scottish Highlands.

Kirstie Allsopp (born 1972) is a modern-day British television presenter and businesswoman, known for her work on various home and property shows, including Location, Location, Location and Kirstie's Handmade Treasures.