cat
UK[kæt]US[kæt]
n
A small domesticated carnivorous mammal with soft fur, a short snout, and retractable claws, often kept as a pet or for catching mice.
n
Any animal of the family Felidae, including lions, tigers, and leopards.
Etymology
The word 'cat' has a remarkably stable history across many European languages, tracing back to a common ancestor in Late Latin or perhaps an even earlier Afro-Asiatic source. This linguistic journey reflects the animal's own spread from the Near East and Egypt into Europe via trade and Roman influence. The simple, monosyllabic form has remained largely unchanged for over a thousand years, demonstrating how a basic, essential concept can resist complex morphological change. Its persistence underscores the deep and ancient relationship between humans and this particular domesticated animal.
Analysis
The word 'cat' is a simplex word. It is a direct borrowing from Late Old English 'catt', which came from a widespread Germanic word (e.g., Old Norse 'köttr', Old High German 'kazza'). Its ultimate origin is likely Late Latin 'cattus' or a similar Afro-Asiatic source, possibly from an Egyptian word.
Examples
The black cat sat on the windowsill, watching the birds outside.
Big cats like lions and tigers are powerful predators.
She is allergic to cat hair.