Cathy

Cathy is an English short form of Catherine, which derives through Latin and Greek Aikaterinē from a name of disputed origin, possibly linked to the Greek root katharos, meaning pure. The name gained widespread use in the medieval Christian world through devotion to Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a fourth-century martyr venerated across Europe. Cathy emerged as an affectionate diminutive in English-speaking countries during the twentieth century and became especially popular in mid-century America. Related forms include Katherine, Kate, Karen, and Katarina.