kit-cat

noun

variants or kit-kat

ˈkitˌkat

1

usually capitalized K&C or both Ks : a member of an early 18th century London club of Whig politicians and men of letters

2

[probably so called from the portraits hung in a dining room of the Kit-cat club whose low ceiling made the smaller size necessary] : a portrait of less than half length but including the hands

some thirty major portraits hanging on the walls, besides kit-cats, heads, sketches … and all the lesser oddities of a collection many years in the making

—Clemence Dane

Word History

Etymology

after Kit (Christopher) Cat or Catling, 18th century English keeper of the tavern where the club originally met

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now