Is there a difference between Strat and Stratocaster electric guitars?

I always thought that Strat was just short from Stratocaster, but then my friend was telling me that Strats are lower end models of Stratocaster. and that even Fender has Strats and Stratocaster. He said the same thing goes with Tele. I kinda trust him because he has a really good knowledge and understanding of guitars, but at the same time i kinda call bullshit on it cuz i mean he is wrong at times tho he doesn't like to admit it. and also come on Strat and Stratocaster. I'm pretty sure everyone else would agree with me that it's teh same thing. ELECTRIC GUITAR