Why Are Cats Called Pussy Cats?

Growing up, you might have come across the word “pussycat”. Cats are commonly referred to with this word; if nothing else, cartoons and children’s books are full of it. So why are our cats called “pussy”, and where did this all originate from? Read on to find out.

The word “pussy cat” has to do with the development of the English language, when words for “cat” were introduced in German, French and Latin languages. Female cats are called pussycats, while male cats are called tomcats.

The Origins of the Word “Pussycat” How Cats Became Known as Pussycats?

It is believed that the word “pussy” was introduced into the English language in the fifteenth century from the word “puss” in German, which means cat. The entire term “pussycat” was first reported to be used in the 18th century. It is the altered form of “puceat” which means to break wind. One hypothesis is that since our felines can be very bloated (from licking themselves and swallowing hairballs), the term’s altered version stuck to our gassy pets. “Puceat” comes from the old French word “pucer” which means fleas, so sailors used to call their flea-infested cats “pussies”.

Puss is often spoken twice to create a call name for a cat (puss-puss). It is also hypothesized that the word “pussy cat” may come from this.

Check Out: Why Are Dogs Considered Masculine And Cats Feminine?

Why Are Cats Called Pussy Cats?

Pussy cats are called so because of old nomenclature and the addition of the word “cat” in different languages into the English language, like German, French and Latin (pus). It stuck because cats are adorable, fluffy and cuddly creatures.

Also Check Out: Why Felines Prefer Females Over Males?

The Various Meanings of “Pussy Cat”

“Puss” means cat, which derives from the word “Pussy”. According to the Collins Dictionary, other meanings of this word include:

1. A cat
2. (vulgar slang): a woman’s private parts

• Women in general
• A weak or cowardly man

So a cat is its primary meaning; however, back in the day, calling a woman pussy or cat-like was considered a compliment because of their delicate features, attractiveness and playfulness. Similarly, it was considered an insult to men, referring to them as weak or cowardly.

In modern times, female cats are called pussycats, whereas male cats are called tomcats.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line on Why Are Cats Called Pussy Cats

The word “Pussycat” was introduced centuries ago from the word “puss” in the German language. Other languages have similar words for cats, like “pucer” in French and “pus” in Latin. It stuck around because it represents the feline’s delicate, shy, playful nature. It is now used to refer to female cats, while males are called tom cats. Whether you prefer to call your feline a pussy cat or not doesn’t take away from its adorableness!

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