The word “cat” refers to a small domesticated carnivorous mammal (Felis catus) that is often kept as a pet or used to control pests. Cats are known for their agility, independence, and playful yet aloof nature. In addition to its literal meaning, “cat” is used figuratively in idiomatic expressions and slang to describe a person (e.g., “cool cat”) or certain traits like slyness and cleverness. It appears in various idioms, phrasal verbs, and related words, emphasizing its cultural and linguistic versatility.
Sentences Using “Cat”:
- My cat loves to sleep on the couch all day.
- The stray cat wandered into our backyard looking for food.
- She’s such a cool cat—everyone wants to hang out with her.
- The cat jumped effortlessly onto the roof.
- The cat purred happily when I scratched its ears.
- Don’t let the cat out of the bag; it’s supposed to be a surprise!
- He’s as curious as a cat, always snooping around.
- That cat burglar managed to escape without leaving a trace.
- My cat chases birds in the garden every morning.
- The black cat crossed the road, and some people thought it was bad luck.
Synonyms for “Cat”:
- Feline
- Kitten
- Moggy (informal, British)
- Tomcat (male cat)
- Pussycat
Slang or figurative synonyms:
- Cool person (informal: “cool cat”)
- Sneak (as in “cat burglar”)
Antonyms for “Cat”:
- Dog (natural counterpart as a pet)
- Mouse (often prey to cats)
- Predator (opposed in context of small, harmless domestic cats)
Related Words:
- Kitten
- Tomcat
- Pussycat
- Stray
- Pet
- Whiskers
- Purr
- Meow
- Furball
Phrasal Verbs:
- Let the cat out of the bag – To reveal a secret unintentionally.
- Cat around – To act playfully, flirt, or move around aimlessly.
- Cat up – To provoke or stir someone (less common).
- Fight like cats and dogs – To argue or fight constantly.
Idiomatic Expressions:
- Let the cat out of the bag – To disclose a secret.
- Curiosity killed the cat – Being overly curious can lead to trouble.
- When the cat’s away, the mice will play – People will take advantage of freedom when supervision is absent.
- Cat got your tongue? – Asked when someone is unusually silent.
- Like a cat on a hot tin roof – Nervous, restless, or uneasy.
- The cat’s meow – Something exceptional or impressive.
- A fat cat – A wealthy, influential person, often with a negative connotation.
- Grinning like a Cheshire cat – Smiling broadly, often with a sense of knowing something secretive.
- Raining cats and dogs – To rain very heavily.
- Cool cat – A relaxed, stylish, or admirable person.
The word “cat” is widely used in everyday language, both literally and figuratively. Its presence in idioms, phrasal verbs, and expressions reflects its symbolic and cultural significance across different contexts.