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Cat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cat

[kæt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal

A small domesticated carnivorous mammal with soft fur, a short snout, and retractile claws. It is widely kept as a pet or for catching mice.

Synonyms

feline, kitty, tomcat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cat

General term for any domestic feline.

  • I have a cat at home; her name is Luna.
  • The cat jumped onto the kitchen counter.
feline

A more formal or scientific term, often used in writing or when referring to the family of cats, including big cats like lions and tigers.

  • The veterinarian specializes in feline health.
  • Tigers are one of the largest feline species.
kitty

Informal and affectionate term often used when talking to children or referring to a young or playful cat.

  • Look at the cute little kitty playing with the yarn.
  • Can we adopt the kitty we saw at the shelter?
tomcat

Specifically refers to a male cat, usually unneutered. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation, especially if referring to the cat's behavior being unruly or troublesome.

  • The tomcat next door is always getting into fights.
  • Our tomcat loves to explore the neighborhood.

Examples of usage

  • They have a pet cat named Whiskers.
  • The cat purred contentedly as it curled up on the chair.
Context #2 | Noun

slang

A person, especially a man.

Synonyms

chap, dude, guy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cat

Informal or casual conversations, often used in jazz slang or to refer to someone in a cool or hip context.

  • That cat can really play the drums!
  • He's a cool cat; everyone likes him.
guy

General and versatile term, can be used in most informal or semi-formal situations to refer to a man.

  • Who's that guy you were talking to?
  • He's a nice guy who always helps out.
dude

Casual or laid-back conversations, commonly used among younger people or in American English slang.

  • Hey, dude, what's up?
  • Dude, that was an amazing show!
chap

Chiefly British English, used in polite or friendly gatherings to refer to a man, often carries a slightly old-fashioned or formal tone.

  • He's a nice chap, always willing to help.
  • That chap over there is new in town.

Examples of usage

  • He's a cool cat, always wearing sunglasses.
  • The old cat told stories of his youth.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Cats were domesticated around 9,000 years ago, likely in the Near East, where they helped control rodent populations in human settlements.
  • Ancient Egyptians worshipped cats, often depicting them in art and even mummifying them after death as symbols of grace and protection.
  • During the Middle Ages, cats were associated with witchcraft in Europe, leading to widespread fear and persecution.

Science

  • Cats have a highly developed sense of smell, which is about 14 times stronger than that of humans, aiding in their hunting skills.
  • With over 20 muscles controlling their ears, felines can rotate them independently, allowing them to detect sounds in different directions.
  • Cats can jump up to six times their body length in a single leap, showcasing their incredible agility and strength.

Pop Culture

  • Internet culture celebrates cats, leading to viral sensations like Grumpy Cat and Nyan Cat, which highlight their quirky personalities.
  • The musical 'Cats,' based on T.S. Eliot's poems, has captivated audiences worldwide with its unique take on feline lives.
  • Felines have appeared in countless movies, from the suave Catwoman in Batman to the lovable cat from 'The Aristocats.'

Psychology

  • Studies show that having a cat can reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of companionship and calm.
  • The act of petting a cat releases oxytocin in humans, often referred to as the 'love hormone,' fostering feelings of affection.
  • Felines communicate with humans differently than with each other, developing unique behaviors and vocalizations to convey their needs.

Literature

  • Cats have been featured prominently in literature, from the playful cat in Lewis Carroll’s 'Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland' to the wise Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by T.S. Eliot.
  • Ernest Hemingway was famously known for his love of cats, owning dozens at his home in Key West, Florida, leading to a unique literary legacy.
  • In Japanese folklore, the 'Bakeneko' and 'Neko' are magical cats that can shape-shift, often depicted in stories and art.

Origin of 'cat'

The word 'cat' originated from the Old English word 'catt', which is believed to have been borrowed from the Latin word 'cattus'. Cats have been domesticated for thousands of years and have been revered in some cultures while feared in others. They are known for their agility, independence, and hunting skills.

See also: catamount, catapult, cater, catlike, cattail, cattiness, catwalk.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,037, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.