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Pussyfoot: meaning, definitions and examples

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pussyfoot

 

[ ˈpʌsiˌfʊt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

cautious behavior

To pussyfoot means to act in a cautious or timid manner, often avoiding direct action or decision-making. It reflects a tendency to be overly careful, suggesting that someone is avoiding confrontation or taking a stand on an issue. This term is often used in informal contexts, particularly when someone is perceived as being evasive or noncommittal in their actions. The word can imply a lack of decisiveness or an intention to avoid offending others.

Synonyms

be indecisive, dawdle, dilly-dally, hesitate

Examples of usage

  • He always likes to pussyfoot around the issue instead of addressing it directly.
  • Don't pussyfoot; just tell them what you really think.
  • She felt he was pussyfooting about asking for a raise.
  • They are pussyfooting their way through negotiations.

Translations

Translations of the word "pussyfoot" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sussurrar

🇮🇳 धीरे चलना

🇩🇪 schleichen

🇮🇩 berjalan pelan-pelan

🇺🇦 обережно ходити

🇵🇱 przechadzać się ostrożnie

🇯🇵 忍び寄る

🇫🇷 marcher sur la pointe des pieds

🇪🇸 caminar de puntillas

🇹🇷 sessizce yürümek

🇰🇷 살금살금 걷다

🇸🇦 المشي بخفة

🇨🇿 šourat se

🇸🇰 šuchotať sa

🇨🇳 轻声走

🇸🇮 tiho hoditi

🇮🇸 stíga varlega

🇰🇿 сақтықпен жүру

🇬🇪 ნაბიჯი აუჩქარებლად

🇦🇿 yavaş-yavaş getmək

🇲🇽 caminar de puntillas

Etymology

The term 'pussyfoot' has a colorful origin, believed to stem from the combination of 'pussy', a term of endearment for a cat, and 'foot', reflecting the soft, cautious steps of a feline. Cats are known for their stealth and quiet movement, which metaphorically translates to someone being careful or indecisive in their actions. This term first appeared in print around the early 20th century, often used in American English. It was notably popularized in the 1910s and 1920s and has since entered common usage to describe someone who approaches situations with excessive caution. Its figurative sense has contributed to its longevity and relevance in modern language, often found in casual conversations and various forms of media.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,491, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.