When describing something that is positioned diagonally across from something else, you may have heard people use the term kitty-corner vs catty-corner. These variations can be confusing, especially because they sound similar but appear differently in writing.
So, which one is correct? And why are there so many versions?
This guide explains the meaning, origin, regional preferences, and proper usage of kitty-corner vs catty-corner—and where caddy-corner fits in.
What Does Kitty-Corner vsCatty-Corner Mean?
All three expressions—kitty-corner, catty-corner, and caddy-corner—mean the same thing:
Diagonally across from something.
Example:
- “The grocery store is kitty-corner from the pharmacy.”
- “Her house sits catty-corner to the park.”
No matter which spelling you choose, the meaning is identical.
Related: Fueling vs Fuelling
Kitty-Corner vs Catty-Corner (Main Keyword Difference)
The debate over kitty-corner vs catty-corner comes down to regional dialects and personal preference, not meaning.
Kitty-Corner
- Most common form in American English
- Frequently used in the Midwest and Western U.S.
- Sounds playful and easy to remember
- Many dictionaries list this spelling as the standard form
Catty-Corner
- Also widely used in American English
- More common in the Southern United States
- Sometimes chosen because it looks more logical (it has “cat” in it)
Which one is correct?
Both are correct. The choice between kitty-corner vs catty-corner is simply a matter of dialect.
Where Does Caddy-Corner Fit In?
You may also see the spelling caddy-corner, although it is less common than the other two.
Caddy-Corner
- A variant influenced by the word “cater-corner”, the original linguistic form.
- Used in some regions but not as widespread.
- Meaning is still identical: diagonally opposite
While it’s acceptable, caddy-corner is generally considered the least common spelling and may look unusual to many readers.
Origin of the Terms
All versions trace back to the 16th-century French word “quatre”, meaning “four”.
This became the English term “cater”, as in:
- cater-cornered → “set at an angle” or “diagonal”
Over time, cater shifted in pronunciation. Regional speech patterns turned it into:
- catty-corner
- kitty-corner
- caddy-corner
So the modern forms are simply dialectical evolutions of the same original phrase.
Regional Usage at a Glance
Here’s how the terms are commonly used across the U.S.:
| Term | Common Regions | Notes |
| Kitty-corner | Midwest, West, Northeast | Most recognized spelling |
| Catty-corner | Southern U.S. | Second most common |
| Caddy-corner | Scattered | Least common, but still correct |
Examples in Sentences
Here are examples to help you understand how each form is used naturally:
Kitty-Corner
- “The bakery is kitty-corner from the bank.”
- “We live kitty-corner to my cousin’s house.”
Catty-Corner
- “The playground is catty-corner from the school.”
- “Her office is catty-corner across the hallway.”
Caddy-Corner
- “The restaurant sits caddy-corner to the library.”
- “He parked his truck caddy-corner from the mechanic shop.”
All sentences remain correct regardless of spelling choice.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
If you’re writing for general American readers or want the most widely accepted version:
Use kitty-corner.
If you prefer a Southern flavor or grew up with the other spelling:
Use catty-corner.
If you’re writing historically or regionally:
Caddy-corner is acceptable, though less common.
Conclusion
Whether you say caddy-corner, kitty-corner, or catty-corner, all three expressions mean diagonally across from something. The differences come down to regional dialects and personal preference—not meaning.
When comparing kitty-corner vs catty-corner,first one is the most common and widely accepted spelling.“Catty-corner” is equally correct and common in some regions. Caddy-corner is a less frequent but valid variant. With this understanding, you can confidently use any form depending on your audience, location, or writing style.
