wildcat
2 synonyms and 1 antonym for wildcat, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Describing an action, especially a strike, taken by workers without official union approval.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
unauthorised
Antonyms
How to use wildcat
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
wildcat strike
wildcat drilling
Etymology
From "wild" + "cat"; the business sense traces back to risky, unregulated "wildcat banks" in 1830s Michigan, named for operating recklessly like a wild animal.
Full origin of wildcat →Frequently asked questions
What does “wildcat” mean?
The word “wildcat” means describing an action, especially a strike, taken by workers without official union approval. In plain terms, describes unauthorized, risky, or unofficial action — from labor strikes to speculative oil drilling.
How do you pronounce “wildcat”?
“Wildcat” is pronounced WYLD-kat (/ˈwaɪ.əldˌkæt/ in IPA).
How do you use “wildcat” in a sentence?
Here is “wildcat” used in a sentence: “The drivers staged a wildcat strike over the new schedules.”
What part of speech is “wildcat”?
Depending on how it is used, “wildcat” can be an adjective and a verb.
Where does the word “wildcat” come from?
The word “wildcat” dates back to around 1830. From "wild" + "cat"; the business sense traces back to risky, unregulated "wildcat banks" in 1830s Michigan, named for operating recklessly like a wild animal.
How many meanings does “wildcat” have?
“Wildcat” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: describing an action, especially a strike, taken by workers without official union approval.
