When it comes to naming your child, there are endless possibilities. Some people opt for classic names while others prefer unique and trendy monikers. But where does the name “Kit” fit in? Is it a posh name or simply a passing fad?
Many people believe that “Kit” has a certain level of sophistication to it. It’s short, sweet, and easy to remember – all factors that make for a posh name. However, others argue that it’s too casual to be considered posh. After all, it’s often used as a nickname for the more formal “Christopher” or “Katherine.”
Despite the ongoing debate, one thing is for sure: “Kit” has become more common in recent years. In fact, many popular celebrities have chosen the name for their children. But whether you think it’s posh or not, one thing is certain – “Kit” is a name that’s here to stay.
The Origin of the Name Kit
The name Kit is commonly associated with a posh persona. However, its origin can be traced back to the medieval times.
In medieval England, the name Kit was derived from Christopher, which means “bearer of Christ.” However, instead of the full name Christopher, the nickname Kit was commonly used. It was a popular nickname in the 16th and 17th centuries due to the influence of famous playwright Christopher Marlowe, who was called Kit by his friends.
Kit was also used as a pet name for Katherine, which was a popular name during the same period. It was also used as a nickname for Kitlings, which referred to small kittens.
Fun Facts about the Name Kit
- The name Kit has been used as a surname in some cultures.
- Actors Kit Harington and Kit Connor have helped popularize the name in recent years.
- The name Kit was also used in literature, such as in the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, where Kit is the nickname of the character Henry Clinton.
The Modern Use of the Name Kit
Today, the name Kit is still associated with a posh persona, and it’s often used as a nickname for those with the full name Christopher or Katherine. However, it can also be a standalone name. Its popularity has been rising in recent years, and it’s now ranked in the top 500 most popular baby names in the United States.
The name Kit has also been used in popular culture. For example, Kit is the name of the beloved car in the TV series “Knight Rider.” In the world of fashion, British designer Kit Neale has made a name for himself with his playful and vibrant designs.
Kit Variations Across Different Cultures
While the name Kit has its roots in medieval England, it has variations across different cultures. Here are a few:
| Culture | Variation |
|---|---|
| German | Kitz |
| Japanese | Kito |
| Swedish | Kitte |
Overall, the name Kit has an interesting history and has evolved to become a modern and trendy choice for parents. Its associations with a posh persona make it a popular choice for those looking for a sophisticated name for their child.
Historical usage of the name Kit
The name Kit has a rich history and is thought to have originated from the Greek word for “carrier of Christ.” It has been used as a nickname or short form of several different names throughout history. Some notable historical figures who have gone by the name Kit include:
- Christopher Marlowe, the famous playwright and contemporary of Shakespeare
- Kit Carson, the legendary American frontiersman and explorer
- Kit Harington, the English actor best known for his role as Jon Snow in the television series “Game of Thrones”
Interestingly, Kit has also been used as a surname in some cases. For example, the famous detective Sherlock Holmes is known for his sidekick Dr. John Watson, but in some adaptations of the character, Watson’s full name is given as John H. Watson, with the “H” standing for “Hamish.” In these adaptations, Watson’s nickname is Kit, derived from the Latin word “kitten,” meaning “little cat.”
Celebrity Babies Named Kit
In recent years, the name Kit has gained popularity among celebrity parents. Here are three famous babies named Kit:
- Kit Harington and Rose Leslie’s Son: The “Game of Thrones” co-stars welcomed their first child, a baby boy, in February 2021. They named him after Kit Harington, who played Jon Snow in the HBO series.
- Christina Perri’s Daughter: The singer-songwriter and her husband welcomed a daughter named Carmella Stanley Costabile, but they call her Kit for short. Perri says the nickname came from her love of football, specifically the sport’s “kit” or uniform.
- Rachel Bilson and Hayden Christensen’s Daughter: The former couple named their daughter Briar Rose Christensen, but they often call her Kit. Bilson has said that the name Kit was inspired by a character in the movie “Pretty Baby.”
The Growing Popularity of the Name Kit
Kit is a short and punchy name that has been steadily rising in popularity in recent years. In 2020, it was the 251st most popular name for boys in the United States, up from 298th place the previous year.
One possible reason for the name’s popularity is its association with strength and resilience. The name Kit is derived from the Old Norse word “ketill,” which means “kettle” or “cauldron.” In Norse mythology, cauldrons were considered sacred and were associated with magic, transformation, and rebirth. The name Kit may also evoke images of knights and warriors, thanks to its similarity to the word “knight.”
A Comparison of Kit and Other Short Names
When it comes to short and punchy names, Kit is just one of many options. Here’s a comparison of Kit with some other popular short names:
| Name | Meaning/Origin | Popularity (2020) |
|---|---|---|
| Max | Latin for “greatest” | 174th |
| Leo | Latin for “lion” | 50th |
| Finn | Irish for “fair” | 166th |
| Kai | Hawaiian for “sea” | 137th |
| Kit | Old Norse for “kettle” | 251st |
While Kit may not be the most popular short name on the list, it offers a unique and distinctive option for parents who want a name that is short, strong, and easy to spell and pronounce.
Kit as a Nickname for Christopher
Kit is a widely used nickname for Christopher, and it has become increasingly popular over the years. Here are some insights into why this nickname is so popular among Christophers:
- Short and Sweet: Kit is a shorter and more distinctive name than Christopher. As such, it has become a popular nickname and an excellent alternative for parents looking for a different take on the name.
- Closer to the Original: The name Christopher originates from the Greek name Christophoros, which means “bearer of Christ.” The name Kit is closer in meaning and pronunciation to its original meaning, making it an ideal nickname.
- Historical Significance: Many famous historical figures have been known by the nickname Kit, including the playwright Christopher Marlowe and the American frontiersman Christopher “Kit” Carson. As such, the name Kit has a long and rich history, adding to its appeal.
For those considering Kit as a nickname for Christopher, it’s essential to be aware of its popularity. Many parents worldwide use the name Kit as a nickname for their children, so it’s not exclusive or posh. However, it remains a lovely and unique name to give to any child.
Below is a table showing the popularity of the name Kit in the United States:
| Year | Ranking | Number of Babies Named Kit |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Not in the top 1000 | – |
| 2019 | Not in the top 1000 | – |
| 2018 | Not in the top 1000 | – |
As seen in the table, the popularity of the name Kit has not yet made it to the top 1000.
The Popularity of the Name Kit in Different Countries
Kit is a short and simple name that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Here is a breakdown of Kit’s popularity in different countries:
- United Kingdom: Kit is a popular name in the UK, ranking at number 99 in the top 100 names for boys in 2019.
- United States: Kit is not as popular in the US, ranking at number 2,079 in the top 5,000 names for boys in 2019.
- Canada: Kit is a relatively uncommon name in Canada, ranking at number 1,068 in the top 1,000 names for boys in 2019.
It’s worth noting that Kit can also be a nickname for other names such as Christopher, Katherine, or Katya, which may affect its popularity in different countries.
Here is a table showing the popularity of Kit in the UK over the past decade:
| Year | Rank | Number of Babies Given Name |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 194 | 408 |
| 2011 | 159 | 518 |
| 2012 | 150 | 570 |
| 2013 | 121 | 775 |
| 2014 | 93 | 1,147 |
As you can see, Kit has been consistently rising in popularity in the UK over the past decade, with over 1,000 babies given the name in 2014 alone.
Similar sounding names to Kit
While Kit may sound posh, there are several similar sounding names that have gained popularity over the years:
- Kip: A short and sweet name that is perfect for a baby boy. It has a cheerful ring to it and is easy to remember.
- Kai: This name has roots in the Hawaiian and Japanese languages and means “ocean.” It has become more popular over the years and is a unique choice for both boys and girls.
- Keaton: A name of English origin that means “shed town.” It has a sophisticated and elegant ring to it and can be a great alternative to the more popular names.
In addition to these names, there are also several variations of Kit that you may consider:
| Variation | Meaning | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Christopher | Bearer of Christ | Greek |
| Christian | Follower of Christ | Latin |
| Christina | Christ-bearer | Greek |
| Kitra | Crown of victory | Hebrew |
Whether you choose one of these similar sounding names or decide to stick with Kit, remember that the most important thing is that your child’s name is meaningful to you and your family.
Famous fictional characters named Kit
Characters named “Kit” have made appearances in literature, television, and movies for decades. Here are seven famous fictional characters who bear the name:
- Kit Tyler from “The Witch of Blackbird Pond”: Written by Elizabeth George Speare, “The Witch of Blackbird Pond” follows Kit Tyler, a young girl who leaves her home in Barbados to live with her relatives in colonial Connecticut. The book, which won the 1959 Newbery Medal, explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and prejudice.
- Kit Walker from “The Phantom”: Also known as “The Ghost Who Walks,” Kit Walker is the protagonist of the comic strip “The Phantom.” First published in 1936, the series follows the adventures of a masked vigilante who fights against various criminals and evildoers.
- Kitai Raige from “After Earth”: Played by Jaden Smith in the 2013 movie “After Earth,” Kitai Raige is the son of a legendary ranger named Cypher Raige. The film, which takes place in a future where Earth has become uninhabitable, sees Kitai embark on a dangerous journey to save his father.
- Kitai von Gyldenlöwe from “The Master and Margarita”: In Mikhail Bulgakov’s masterpiece “The Master and Margarita,” Kitai von Gyldenlöwe is a minor character who briefly appears in a dream sequence. He is described as the son of a high-ranking German official who holds a position in Moscow.
- Kitaiji from “Battle Royale”: In Koushun Takami’s dystopian novel “Battle Royale,” Kitaiji is one of the 42 students who are forced to fight to the death on a deserted island. He is a member of the group led by Kazuo Kiriyama, one of the most ruthless contestants in the game.
- Kitai Kisaragi from “Tokyo Mew Mew”: An anime and manga series about a group of teenage girls who transform into magical creatures to save the world, “Tokyo Mew Mew” features a character named Kitai Kisaragi. He is the love interest of one of the main characters, Ichigo Momomiya.
- Kit Fisto from “Star Wars”: A Jedi Master and member of the Galactic Republic, Kit Fisto made his debut in “Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones.” He is known for his unusual appearance, as he has large, saucer-like eyes and a head full of tentacles.
As you can see, the name “Kit” has been used to denote characters across a wide range of genres, from historical fiction to science fiction. Whether these characters are memorable for their bravery, their wit, or their striking appearance, they all share a common thread: the name Kit.
Variations of the name Kit
The name Kit is a short and sweet name that has evolved from medieval times. It’s a popular name in English culture that is derived from the name Christopher or Katherine. However, there are several unique variations of the name Kit that have been used throughout history.
- Kitt: This variation of the name Kit is often used for girls and is considered a shortened version of the name Katherine or Katarina. It has German origins and means “pure”.
- Kitson: This variation of the name Kit is a surname that is derived from the given name Christopher. It means “follower of Christ” and is often used as a surname.
- Kitten: Kitten is a unique and adorable variation of the name Kit. It is used more commonly for pet names or nicknames than as an official given name.
While these are some of the most common variations, there are many more derivatives of the name Kit that have been used over time.
Here’s a closer look at some of the notable variations of the name Kit:
| Variation | Origins | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchin | English | From the Old English word cyťen or cytena, meaning “a kitchen servant” or “one who worked in the kitchen” |
| Kito | Japanese | Meaning “hope” |
| Kitra | Hebrew | Meaning “crown of God” |
| Kith | Scottish | A shortened version of the surname MacKithan |
Regardless of the variation, the name Kit remains a popular choice among parents today. With its short and sweet charm, it’s no wonder why this name has been around for centuries.
Kit as a Unisex Name
Kit is a unique name that has been gaining popularity over the years. It is a unisex name, which means it can be used for both males and females. The name Kit has different meanings in different cultures, including “carrier of Christ” in Greek and “bringer of peace” in Norse. In this section, we will explore more about Kit as a unisex name.
- Popularity: Kit has been a popular name in English-speaking countries for both boys and girls. According to BabyCenter, Kit was ranked #748 for boys and #670 for girls in the United States in 2020. In England and Wales, Kit was ranked #358 for boys and #834 for girls in 2019.
- Famous KIts: Over the years, several famous people have had the name Kit, including Kit Harington, the British actor known for his role as Jon Snow on Game of Thrones. Kit Carson, the American frontiersman and Indian fighter, is another well-known Kit.
- Variations: Kit is a short form of various names, including Christopher, Katherine, and Christian. Although it is more commonly used as a nickname, it has gained popularity as a standalone name in recent years. Other variations of the name include Kitt, Kitten, and Kitty.
Moreover, Kit has been used as a name for fictional characters, including Kit Tyler in the novel “The Witch of Blackbird Pond” by Elizabeth George Speare and Kitai Raige in the movie “After Earth.”
As a unisex name, Kit provides a gender-neutral option for parents looking for a name that is not strictly male or female. It has gained popularity in recent years as people move away from traditional gender norms and embrace gender diversity.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique and uncommon name | May be confused with other names like Kitty or Kip |
| Gender-neutral option | May struggle with pronunciation or spelling |
| Short and easy to remember | May not have a strong meaning or association for some individuals |
Overall, Kit is a great option for parents looking for a unique and gender-neutral name. It has a strong history and has been used by several famous individuals as well. However, it is important to consider the potential pros and cons before choosing it as a name for your child.
The Meaning Behind the Name Kit
Kit is a name that has grown in popularity over the years, and its popularity has brought about several discussions about its meaning. As someone who is interested in the meaning of names, it’s exciting to look into what Kit symbolizes and how it came about.
What Does Kit Mean?
- Origin – Kit is a shortened version of both Christopher and Katherine. It is also a name in its right in several languages.
- Meaning – The name Kit has several meanings across different cultures. For example, in Greek, Kit means “stable,” while in Hebrew, it means “hope.” In English, Kit simply means “carrier of Christ.”
- Popularity – The name Kit has grown in popularity over the years, especially in countries like England and the United States.
- Famous Kits – There are several famous individuals named Kit, including Kit Harington, Kit Carson, and Kit Culkin.
The Number 10 and Kit
As mentioned earlier, Kit is a name that has several meanings across different cultures. Interestingly, the number 10 is often associated with the name Kit, especially in numerology.
In numerology, the number 10 is considered a powerful number that represents the beginning and the end of a cycle. It is also associated with spiritual awakening and the fulfillment of destiny.
| Kit and the Number 10 | Numerology Meaning |
|---|---|
| Kit has four letters | Number 4 represents practicality, hard work, and organization |
| The initials K and T stand for 11 and 20 in the alphabet, respectively | Number 11 represents spiritual awakening and intuition, while number 20 represents independence and innovation |
| When the letters are combined, they form the number 30 | Number 30 represents creativity and communication |
While some may see these associations as coincidental, it’s fascinating to see how the number 10 can symbolize different aspects of Kit’s name.
In conclusion, Kit is a name with a rich history and several meanings across different cultures. Whether you’re a fan of the name or considering it for your child, it’s exciting to explore its significance and symbolism.
FAQs about “Is Kit a Posh Name?”
1. Is Kit a posh name?
The poshness of a name is subjective and Kit can be considered posh by some, depending on their cultural background and perception.
2. Where does the name Kit originate from?
Kit is a diminutive of the name Christopher, which has Greek roots and means “bearer of Christ”.
3. Is Kit more commonly used as a nickname or a standalone name?
Kit can be used both as a nickname and a standalone name, depending on personal preference.
4. Is Kit a popular name?
Kit is not as commonly used as other names, but it has been increasing in popularity over the years.
5. Can Kit be a gender-neutral name?
Yes, Kit can be a gender-neutral name and is commonly used for both boys and girls.
6. Is Kit a good name for a baby?
Kit is a short and sweet name that can be easily pronounced and remembered. It can be a good choice for parents looking for a unique yet classic name.
7. What are some famous people with the name Kit?
Some famous people with the name Kit are actor Kit Harington, musician Kit Chan, and author Kit de Waal.
Closing: Thanks for Reading!
We hope this article has provided some useful information on the poshness of the name Kit. Remember, the choice of a name is a personal one and should reflect the parents’ preferences and the baby’s personality. Thanks for reading and be sure to visit us again for more interesting content!