Kat

Kat is an English short form of Katherine and its many spelling variants, all of which trace back through Latin Katharina and Greek Aikaterine to a root of uncertain origin, possibly connected to the Greek word katharos, meaning pure. The name has been in use as an independent given name since at least the early modern period, bolstered by its long popularity as an everyday nickname. Notable bearers include Kat Dennings, the American actress, which reflects the name's continued modern appeal. Related forms include Kate, Katie, Katya, and the full form Katherine.