kitten
UK: ˈkɪtn | US: ˈkɪtn
n. a young domestic cat
n. (informal) a term of endearment for a small or playful person/thing
The word "kitten" traces back to the 14th century, blending Old French and Middle English influences. The root kit- reflects a playful, youthful connotation, while the -en suffix softens the term, emphasizing smallness. This mirrors the word’s evolution from chitoun (little cat) in Old French, which itself borrowed from Latin cattus. The dual morphemes create a vivid image of a tiny, endearing creature.
The kitten curled up in a ball and fell asleep.
She adopted a stray kitten from the shelter.
His playful energy made him the "kitten" of the group.
The kitten pounced on a dangling string.
A litter of kittens tumbled over each other in the box.