Katniss Plant (Sagittaria)
An aquatic plant historically used as a food source by Native Americans; the name's botanical origin.
IPA Pronunciation
/ˈkæt.nɪs/
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Syllables
Katniss is derived from the name of an edible aquatic plant, Sagittaria, commonly called 'katniss.' The plant's name traces back to Latin 'sagitta' meaning 'arrow,' referencing the shape of its leaves. The name gained cultural prominence through Suzanne Collins' 'The Hunger Games' series, where the heroine Katniss Everdeen embodies resilience and survival.
Cultural Significance of Katniss
Katniss rose to cultural significance primarily through the character Katniss Everdeen in Suzanne Collins’ 'The Hunger Games' trilogy. The name symbolizes courage, resilience, and survival instincts, reflecting the character’s role as a strong female protagonist fighting for justice. It has since been embraced as a modern, empowering name representing independence and strength.
Katniss Name Popularity in 2025
Since the release of 'The Hunger Games' movies in the 2010s, Katniss has become a popular choice for parents seeking a unique yet meaningful name. It is distinctive with a modern edge, often chosen for its association with bravery and defiance. While not common in traditional baby name charts, it enjoys steady interest among fans of the series and those drawn to strong female names.
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International Variations8
KatnisKatnessKatnysKatnisshKatnysseKatnizCatnissKatnese
Name Energy & Essence
The name Katniss carries the essence of “A type of edible aquatic plant, symbolizing survival” from Latin (botanical origin) tradition. Names beginning with "K" often embody qualities of knowledge, artistic talent, and sensitivity.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Katniss rose to cultural significance primarily through the character Katniss Everdeen in Suzanne Collins’ 'The Hunger Games' trilogy. The name symbolizes courage, resilience, and survival instincts, reflecting the character’s role as a strong female protagonist fighting for justice. It has since been embraced as a modern, empowering name representing independence and strength.
No historical figures named Katniss are recorded prior to modern culture.
The name is a modern creation or extremely rare historically, with no notable historical figures.
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Jennifer Lawrence
Actress
Suzanne Collins
Author
Elizabeth Banks
Actress/Director
The Hunger Games ()
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire ()
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 ()
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 ()
The Hunger Games: Tribute Guide (Documentary) ()
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Behind the Scenes ()
The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes ()
Fan-made adaptations and parodies ()
Parents: N/A
Katniss
🌐Spanish
Katniss
🌐French
Katniss
🌐German
Katniss
🌐Italian
カットニス (Kattunisu)
🌐Japanese
凯特尼斯 (Kǎitènísī)
🌐Chinese
كاتنيس
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Katniss
Katniss is actually the name of an edible aquatic plant, also known as arrowhead, whose leaves resemble arrows—a fitting symbol for the skilled archer heroine of 'The Hunger Games.'
Personality Traits for Katniss
Individuals named Katniss are often imagined as independent, courageous, and resourceful. They are seen as natural leaders who are fiercely protective of loved ones and unafraid to challenge injustice. The name evokes traits of resilience, intelligence, and a pioneering spirit, balanced with a deep sense of empathy and loyalty.
What does the name Katniss mean?
Katniss is a Latin (botanical origin) name meaning “A type of edible aquatic plant, symbolizing survival”. Katniss is derived from the name of an edible aquatic plant, Sagittaria, commonly called 'katniss.' The plant's name traces back to Latin 'sagitta' meaning 'arrow,' referencing the shape of its leaves. The name gained cultural prominence through Suzanne Collins' 'The Hunger Games' series, where the heroine Katniss Everdeen embodies resilience and survival.
How do you pronounce Katniss?
Katniss is pronounced (IPA: /ˈkæt.nɪs/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Katniss?
Popular nicknames for Katniss include: Kat, Katy, Niss, Kani, Katsy, Nissy, Kit, Kiss, Kattie, Kato.
Who are famous people named Katniss?
Famous people named Katniss include: , , , Jennifer Lawrence, Suzanne Collins.
Which celebrities named their baby Katniss?
Celebrity babies named Katniss include children of: N/A.
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Katniss is a beautiful Latin (botanical origin) name meaning “A type of edible aquatic plant, symbolizing survival”. Katniss is derived from the name of an edible aquatic plant, Sagittaria, commonly called 'katniss.' The plant's name traces back to Latin 'sagitta' meaning 'arrow,' referencing the shape of its leaves...
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