cat

The word “cat” means a small, domesticated, furry mammal commonly kept as a pet, known for hunting mice and independent behaviour. In plain terms, the familiar household pet, or (in computing) a command that displays file contents.

“Cat” is pronounced KAT (/ˈkæt/ in IPA).

Here is “cat” used in a sentence: “The cat curled up on the windowsill in the sun.”

Words with a similar meaning to “cat” include baudrons, domestic cat, grimalkin, kibty, housecat and kitten.

“Cat” is a noun.

The word “cat” comes from Late Latin. From Old English catt, ultimately from Late Latin cattus — the word's deeper origin is uncertain, but it spread across many languages alongside the domestication of cats in the ancient world.

“Cat” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

“Cat” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a small, domesticated, furry mammal commonly kept as a pet, known for hunting mice and independent behaviour.

A kitten is simply a young cat, usually under about a year old. 'Cat' covers the animal at any age, but often implies an adult. Kittens are known for playfulness and rapid growth, while adult cats settle into the calmer, more independent behaviour the species is famous for.

Cats most often purr when they feel content, relaxed, or safe, such as when being stroked. But purring isn't only about happiness — cats also purr to soothe themselves when injured, frightened, or unwell, and some research suggests the vibration may aid healing. Mother cats purr to comfort their kittens.

A well cared-for pet cat typically lives around 12 to 18 years, and many reach their late teens or beyond. Indoor cats generally live longer than outdoor ones because they face fewer dangers from traffic, predators, and disease. Diet, veterinary care, and breed all affect a cat's lifespan.

A group of cats is called a 'clowder,' and a group of kittens is a 'kindle.' A male cat is a 'tom' or 'tomcat,' a female is a 'queen,' and 'moggy' is a British informal term for a cat of no particular breed. These terms appear often in trivia.