Kitty Name Meaning — Greek Origin, Girl Name & Details (2025)

Kitty is a charming and timeless name with deep historical roots. Originally a diminutive of Katherine, it has evolved into a standalone name with enduring popularity. With its meaning of ‘pure’ tracing back to ancient Greek, Kitty carries a classic elegance while maintaining a playful, approachable quality. This name has crossed cultural boundaries and appears in various forms around the world.

Meaning of Kitty

Kitty derives from the Greek name Katherine, which most likely comes from καθαρός (katharos), meaning ‘pure’ or ‘clean’. The name traveled through Latin as Katharina and entered English via Old French Cateline. As a pet form of Catherine, Kitty emerged in medieval England and gained independent status by the 1700s. While the exact etymology of Katherine has some debate (with alternative theories linking it to the goddess Hecate), the ‘pure’ meaning remains the most widely accepted. The name’s evolution reflects common linguistic patterns where affectionate diminutives become established names in their own right.

Origin & Cultural Significance

Kitty originated as an English diminutive of Catherine, which has Greek roots through the name Aikaterinē. The name gained prominence through Saint Catherine of Alexandria, an early Christian martyr, which helped spread its use across Europe. While it has Christian associations through this saintly connection, Kitty is not exclusively tied to Christianity and appears in secular contexts worldwide. The name became particularly popular in English-speaking countries during the 19th and 20th centuries, often used as both a given name and a nickname. Its cross-cultural appeal comes from its simple, melodic sound and positive meaning.

Personality Traits

People named Kitty are often described as lively, sociable, and quick-witted. They typically possess natural curiosity and adaptability, thriving in dynamic environments. Their friendly demeanor and communicative skills make them effective in social situations, while their inherent purity of intention (reflected in the name’s meaning) often translates to genuine, trustworthy relationships.

Similar Names

If you like Kitty, consider: Katherine, Catherine, Kate, Katie, Kat

Famous People Named Kitty

• Kitty Carlisle — American actress, singer, and television personality
• Kitty Wells — American pioneering country music singer

Frequently Asked Questions About Kitty

What does Kitty mean?

Kitty means 'pure' or 'chaste', deriving from the Greek word καθαρός (katharos) through its parent name Katherine.

Is Kitty a boy or girl name?

Kitty is almost exclusively a girl's name, originating as a feminine diminutive of Katherine. While theoretically possible as a nickname for male names like Christopher, it's overwhelmingly used for females.

What is the origin of Kitty?

Kitty originates from Greek through English linguistic evolution. It began as a medieval English diminutive of Catherine (from Greek Aikaterinē) and became established as an independent given name by the 18th century.