What does pussycat mean?
Pussycat is an informal word for a domestic cat, often used with affection to emphasize a cat's softness, small size, or harmless character. It can describe a particular pet, as in “the neighbourhood pussycat,” or be used metaphorically for a timid or cowardly person. The figurative sense is often humorous in friendly teasing but can sound belittling or insulting in serious contexts. Although “pussycat” has become a familiar everyday term, it is less formal than “cat” and is especially common in speech, informal writing, and expressions such as “a little pussycat.” The word’s affectionate surface contrasts with the potentially negative implication of calling someone a coward, giving it both warmth and a mild dismissive edge.
A domestic cat, especially one regarded affectionately.
"A plump ginger pussycat slept in the garden."
Informal and often affectionate; the older hyphenated spelling “pussy-cat” is also encountered.
A person characterized as timid, cowardly, or easily frightened.
"There's no need to be a pussycat about asking for help."
This figurative use is informal and may be teasing or insulting depending on context and tone.
Used when referring to more than one cat or when referring to a type of cat.
"Two pussycats waited by the garden gate."
Once a term of endearment for a cat, “pussycat” can now describe anything from a cuddly pet to someone being urged not to be a coward.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pussycat come from?
Pussycat is an English compound formed in the early modern period by combining “pussy,” once an affectionate term for a cat, with “cat.” The exact origin of “pussy” is uncertain, although its use for a cat is attested before the compound became established. The word therefore developed from a general and affectionate name for a cat into a more playful, idiomatic term with an additional figurative meaning.
Related word forms
How pussycat is actually used
The word is familiar and often affectionate when referring to a cat. Its figurative use for a person can sound teasing but may be insulting when directed at someone who feels frightened or has shown reluctance.
Easily confused with pussycat
Pussy can mean a cat in an affectionate or literary sense, but it also has several vulgar meanings, whereas pussycat is conventionally the informal and usually affectionate term for a cat.