Catlike Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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catlike
[หkatหlฤซk ]
Definitions
behavior
Resembling or characteristic of a cat, especially in being sleek, graceful, or agile.
Synonyms
agile, feline, graceful, sleek.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| catlike |
Best used when describing someone or something that moves quietly and stealthily, much like a cat.
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| feline |
Often used to directly relate to cats or cat-like features, behaviors, or qualities.
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| sleek |
Best used to describe something that is smooth, shiny, and elegant. Can refer to both appearance and movement.
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| graceful |
Used to describe someone or something that moves in a smooth, elegant, and attractive way.
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| agile |
Appropriate for describing physical abilities related to quick and smooth movements. It can also be used metaphorically to describe mental sharpness.
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Examples of usage
- She moved with a catlike grace.
- His catlike reflexes helped him dodge the ball.
- The thief had a catlike stealth as he crept through the house.
appearance
Having physical features similar to those of a cat, such as slanted eyes or a pointed nose.
Synonyms
cat-eyed, feline, pointed-nosed.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| catlike |
Used to describe someone or something that moves silently, gracefully, or stealthily, similar to a cat. It can convey a sense of agility and elegance.
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| feline |
Used to describe traits or behaviors typical of cats. This can refer to physical characteristics, movements, or behaviors. It is a more formal term.
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| cat-eyed |
Refers to having eyes that resemble those of a cat, often suggesting sharp or striking eye appearance. This can imply keen observation or a mysterious allure.
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| pointed-nosed |
Describes someone or something with a nose that is sharp or protruding. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative or less flattering connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Her catlike eyes seemed to follow my every move.
- The mask had a catlike shape with pointed ears.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Behavioral Science
- Studies indicate that cats possess highly developed muscle control, allowing them to move quietly and effortlessly.
- Many animals, including humans, learn to mimic characteristics of cats, such as stealth and agility, in various contexts.
Literature
- The 'catlike' nature of characters appears frequently in literature, often symbolizing mystery or elegance.
- Authors like Lewis Carroll and Edgar Allan Poe used catlike traits in their stories to depict cunning and elusive characters.
Pop Culture
- Many superheroes, such as Catwoman, are depicted with catlike moves and agility, embodying stealthiness and grace.
- Catlike behavior is often parodied in cartoons, showcasing playful depictions of this gracefulness.
Cultural Associations
- In various cultures, cats are revered as symbols of independence and agility, leading to 'catlike' becoming a metaphor for those traits.
- Cats are often featured in folklore as magical or mystical creatures, amplifying the significance of being 'catlike' in storytelling.
Origin of 'catlike'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'catlike' combines 'cat,' which has Old English roots, with 'like,' suggesting similarity.
- Its usage dates back to at least the 14th century, emphasizing the stealthy and graceful characteristics of cats.
The word 'catlike' dates back to the 1600s and is derived from the combination of 'cat' and 'like'. It is used to describe behaviors, movements, or physical features that resemble those of a cat. Cats have long been associated with agility, grace, and stealth, which is why 'catlike' is often used to portray similar characteristics in humans or objects.
See also: cat, catamount, catapult, cater, cattail, cattiness, catwalk.