kitten
Elementary (A2)
IPA: //ˈkɪtən//
KK: /ˈkɪtən/
intransitive verb
Definition
A young cat, typically less than a year old, known for being playful and cute.
Example
The kitten chased the string across the floor.
Conversation
Did you hear that Bella's cat is going to kitten soon?
Really? That’s exciting!
I can't wait to see the little kittens when they arrive.
Me too! They’re going to be so adorable.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
birth
produce
deliver
Antonyms
abort
miscarry
fail
noun
Definition
A young cat that is usually playful and small.
Example
The kitten chased the ball of yarn around the room.
Conversation
Have you seen the new kitten at Sarah's house?
Yes! It's so adorable and playful.
I can't believe how tiny that kitten is!
Root Explanation
Kitten originates from the Old French word *kitten*, which is a diminutive form of *kit*, meaning a young cat. The word reflects the idea of a small or young version of a cat.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old French word for a young cat, *kitten*, which helps you remember that a kitten is simply a small cat.
Visually Confused Words
sitten
mitten
litten
fitten
bitten
kite
iten