Kit is an English unisex diminutive used primarily as a short form of either Christopher or Katherine. The name has been in use since the Middle Ages, functioning as a pet form that has also become a given name in its own right. Its dual origin means Kit can carry the meanings associated with either root: "bearing Christ" from Christopher or the uncertain meaning of Katherine, often linked to Greek katharos meaning "pure" A notable historical bearer of the name was Kit Carson (1809–1868), the iconic American frontiersman, trapper, and explorer who played a key role in westward expansion. More recent well-known figures include English actor Kit Harington (born 1986), famous for portraying Jon Snow in Game of Thrones, and Kit Connor (born 2004), an English actor known for his role in Heartstopper. Other bearers span politics, music, and literature, including American U.S. Senator Kit Bond (born 1939) and Singaporean singer Kit Chan (born 1972).EtymologyAccording to the extended root for Christopher, that name comes from the Late Greek Christophoros, meaning "bearing Christ," and gained popularity due to the legend of Saint Christopher who carried Jesus across a river. The usage of Kit for both males and females reflects the nickname patterns of medieval English, and it remains in use today.Variants and Related NamesCommon English nicknames for Christopher include Chris, Chip. For Katherine, related nicknames include Kitty, Katie, Kathy, Katherine itself and several other variants starting with vowel-like beginnings.Meaning: Diminutive of Christopher (“bearing Christ”) or Katherine (“pure,” etc.) — see those entries for semantic etymologyOrigin: EnglandType: Diminutive (also used independently)Usage Regions: English-speaking and, Kiribade, places distranged may vary; strongest in American tradition