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Cat is an English short form and nickname derived from Katherine and its many variants, which trace back through Latin Catharina and Greek Aikaterinē to a root of disputed origin, possibly connected to the Greek katharos, meaning pure. The name gained widespread use in medieval Europe through the veneration of Saint Catherine of Alexandria. It functions as an independent given name in modern English-speaking countries, though it remains more common as an informal diminutive. Related forms include Kate, Kay, Cate, and Katya.