kitten etymology

Etymology and Meaning:

• Origin: Middle English "kitoun," diminutive of "cat"

• Meaning: A young cat, typically less than one year old

Origin and History:

The word "kitten" emerged in the mid-15th century as a diminutive of "cat." It is thought to have evolved from the Old English word "cyten," meaning "young animal."

The diminutive suffix "-on" was commonly used in Middle English to indicate smallness or affection. In the case of "kitten," it suggests the diminutive size and playful nature of young cats.

Use and Variants:

• "Kitten" is the most common term for a young cat in English.
• In some varieties of English, such as Scottish English, "kit" is also used as a synonym for "kitten."
• In the plural, "kittens" refers to a group of young cats.
• The term "kitty" is sometimes used to refer to a female kitten or a young cat in general.
• "Kittenish" describes behavior that is playful, mischievous, or endearing, like that of a young cat.

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