Kate

Kate is an English short form of Katherine, itself derived through Latin and Greek Aikaterine from an ancient name of disputed origin, most often linked to the Greek root katharos, meaning pure. The name gained widespread use across medieval Europe through the veneration of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a fourth-century martyr. Kate has functioned as both a nickname and an independent given name for centuries, famously borne by characters in Shakespeare and by numerous historical figures. Related forms include Katherine, Catherine, Katelyn, and the Scandinavian Katarina.