Origin of pussy. Our fashion critic explains the origins of the tie-neck blouse and its name. Interesting that pussy for vagina seems also to have an obscure etymology. By the 17th century, it was a cheeky nickname for girls and women. Definition of pussy. Apr 7, 2025 · The online etymology dictionary (etymonline) is the internet's go-to source for quick and reliable accounts of the origin and history of English words, phrases, and idioms. Summary The article explores the etymology of the word "pussy" and its evolution to mean a cat, a coward, and female genitalia. Originally, in Middle English, it appeared as “pusse” or “puse” and referred to a woman or a cat, often in an endearing or familiar way. Pussy vs. Because of Cats are one of the most popular pets in the world, known for their playful nature and independent personalities. Flamingo. Definition of pussy in the Definitions. It has several meanings, as slang, as euphemism, and as vulgarity. Jan 26, 2024 · The visible part of the vagina consists of the outer lips (labia major) and the inner lips (labia minora). S. pussy definition: female genitalia, often used vulgarly. Learn more. " Pussy is a used as a noun, an adjective, and—in rare instances—a verb in the English language. E. 1) + foot (n. Pussy can be an affectionate term for a kitty-cat, a dirty word for a woman’s private parts, or an adjective that describes something that contains pus — that oozing yellow stuff that comes out of a cut. [from 20th c. pussy - WordReference English dictionary, questions, discussion and forums. pussy synonyms, pussy pronunciation, pussy translation, English dictionary definition of pussy. Check meanings, examples, usage tips, pronunciation, domains, and related words. We snatch some examples from history to survey the persistence of pussy in art through the ages. " From Feline Friend to Affectionate Term The noun "pussy," meaning "cat," derives from the Modern English word "puss," which is a conventional name or term of address for a PUSSY meaning: 1. ” The expression comes from the soft steps of a cat. Here, Garfield and Vuolo note the OED’s similar “pussy” origin story: the dictionary claims that the term was used in the late 1500s to reference a girl or woman exhibiting characteristics associated with a cat, like sweetness or amiability. . It has several meanings, including use as slang, as euphemism, and as vulgarity. What does Pussy mean? Information and translations of Pussy in the most comprehensive dictionary definitions resource on the web. Apr 30, 2025 · There are many different types of vagina, and the shape, size, and color naturally vary. One Jul 6, 2015 · What do you call your vagina? Way before "pussy" or "punani" people have been obsessed with nicknames for it. b. Meaning of pussy. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence. In this article, we will explore the origins of the term, as well as delve into some The word pussy first appears in the 1690s as a diminutive of puss, meaning a cat, rabbit, or woman. Apr 24, 2017 · Though it's having a renaissance, should feminists reclaim pussy? Where does the word come from, and can it ever be empowering? Oct 13, 2016 · Which leads us to the origin of the term and its complicated, mysterious history. Because of its multiple senses including both innocent and vulgar connotations, it is often the subject of double entendre. ). Oct 12, 2016 · Here, Garfield and Vuolo note the OED’s similar “pussy” origin story: the dictionary claims that the term was used in the late 1500s to reference a girl or woman exhibiting characteristics Pussy definition: a cat, especially a kitten. Dec 28, 2015 · How "pussy" evolved from its feline origins to mean a woman's genitals and a cowardly man. One of the most interesting things about cats is their unique nickname – pussy cats. Nov 8, 2018 · The word pussy has been vulgar slang for “vagina” and a “woman” since the 19th century, and by the 1950s, extended to mock a “weak” or “cowardly” man. So called for the small and very silky catkins it produces in early spring. Origin of “Pussyfoot” The term dates back to at least 1893; that’s when Scribner’s Magazine wrote about “men who were beginning to walk pussy-footed and shy at shadows. Click for more definitions. It is a metaphor for a cat Define pussy. Offensive Slang A woman, or women, viewed as a source of sexual gratification. This guy is a pussy. Botany A fuzzy catkin, especially of the pussy willow. Oct 5, 2018 · Eating out is a familiar enough slang term to be considered mildly vulgar, though not as offensive in polite or formal contexts as eating pussy. As noted, eating out is seen in a range of contexts, from dirty talk to online porn to pop culture. As a term of endearment for a girl or woman, from 1580s (also used of effeminate men), and applied childishly to anything soft and furry. This nickname, often reserved for domesticated cats, conveys a tender and endearing sentiment toward them, reflective of their social and domestic significance within The Origin Of Pussycat Digging into the etymology of “pussycat” illuminates a fascinating journey through language. In slang, it can mean " vulva," " vagina ", or by synecdoche, " sexual intercourse with a woman". How are woman's genitals related to being a "coward"? Sex The Curious Origins of Our Sexual Dirty Words They're "dirty" not because of sex, but because of political conquest. ) also pussy-foot, 1903, "tread softly," from pussy (n. During WWII, "playing pussy" was RAF slang for pilots who avoided direct combat by using cloud cover, but it's not apparent whether that was a reference to catlike movement or a different connotation. The term It can be traced to female anatomy, a cat, and as a term of endearment, but its origin as a term for cowardice is less clear. Fast forward to the 18th century, and it's all about genitalia, which is where we still find it today. ] synonym quotations Synonyms: see Thesaurus: copulation I’m gonna get me some pussy tonight. The word’s origin is somewhat uncertain, but it’s generally thought to have been a common name for a cat, similar to how we might use “kitty” today. a. Pussy in the sense of 'coward' comes from pussy meaning 'vagina, vulva', which is itself from the meaning 'cat' (though some do not accept that pussy 'cat' and pussy 'snatch' are related). Sep 4, 2021 · How the Word Pussy Came to Mean a Cat, Cowardly, and Female Genitalia Ever wondered why a pussy means a cat and a vagina, here is why This is one of those random posts which came about in the most … Mar 25, 2023 · Yonic images of the vulva, humanity’s first and most sacred symbol, have been erased by phallic images, men and the patriarchy. [from 19th c. a pussycat child's word 2. The name Pussy The journey of "pussy" is like a cat with nine lives. There are 12 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word pussy. Vagina What's the Difference? Pussy and vagina are both terms used to refer to the female genitalia, but they have different connotations and levels of formality. Oral sex on a man can be called a blow job or head while anilingus is commonly called eating ass or tossing (someone’s Nope. The story begins in 1533, at least in the written records of the English language. [2][3] Although by its dictionary and anatomical definitions, the term vagina refers exclusively to the specific internal structure, it is colloquially used to refer to the vulva or to both the vagina and vulva. "cat," 1520s, but probably much older than the record, perhaps imitative of the hissing sound commonly used to get a cat's attention or the noise made by the cat in hissing. All Free. (Not cool, because vaginas are strong. and I am wondering why. See examples of PUSSY-WHIP used in a sentence. What does pussy mean? Information and translations of pussy in the most comprehensive dictionary definitions resource on the web. However, we believe in embracing all aspects of language, including slang, and recognizing its significance in shaping our culture. The meaning of PUSSY is cat. 1) + willow. Nov 2, 2015 · A Cat, a Coward, and Female Genitalia Bob Garfield and Mike Vuolo discuss the etymological quirkiness of the word pussy. " Pussycats: Exploring the Etymology The term ‘pussycat’ has affectionately been attributed to cats for centuries, with its use deeply rooted in the etymology and historical origins of how these feline companions are addressed. Frequently Asked Questions 1. This semantic development ('female organ' > 'female pussy meaning, definition, what is pussy: a cat – used especially by or to childre: Learn more. Puss (minus the y), the hosts point out, predates all of this as a word referring to cats. What is the origin of the name Pussy? Origin and history of pussy-willow pussy-willow (n. But have you ever wondered why cats are called pussy cats? In this article, we will explore the origins of this nickname and delve into some interesting trends related to the topic. The etymology of the word is not entirely clear. Pussy is an English word meaning: Cat As vulgar slang, the vulva or vagina Pejoratively, a coward or weakling as an insult in general In the Somalian language, it is also referred to as Waiz. Posted June 1, 2013 ANSWERS: 5 An0nym0us & quot;Pussy" as a slang term for the female pudenda is thought to derive ultimately from Low German puse "vulva" or Old Norse puss "pocket, pouch". [4][5 Cats are often referred to as “pussies,” a term that has sparked curiosity and confusion among many pet owners and animal lovers. It was actually already in use as a term of endearment for "girl", on the notion that sweet girls exhibited characteristics similar to kittens (it's this sense that later developed into the insult meaning "effeminate man"), and could also mean "rabbit" in its early stages. Sep 8, 2020 · WOMEN | RACE | SEXUALITY Flap Over Wap: A Brief History of ‘Pussy’ from Fairy Tale to Hip-Hop to Culture-Wars Flashpoint If we don’t want our children to be exposed to sexual vulgarity, let’s … pussyfooting, n. The most common as a noun, it means "cat", as well as "coward or weakling". As a noun from 1911, "a detective," American English, from the nickname of U. Most commonly, it is used as a noun with the meaning "cat", or "coward" or "weakling". But the roots stretch even further into history, embedding themselves in the Old Norse language. These species include (among many others): Originating from Latin cunnus ("vulva") + lingere ("to lick"), this word means to lick female genitalia; its Latin root possibly means "gash" or "sheath. Its origin is quite straightforward and obvious. "Pussy" = weak/timid person comes from "pussy" = derogatory term for a woman, which comes from "pussy" = vulva/female genitals, which comes from or is related to Germanic and/or Scandinavian words meaning things like "pocket" or "pouch. In this context, the use of "pussy" works as a double entendre rather than as a euphemism. 1) "cat," by 1690s, a diminutive of puss (n. They even have different smells. It portrays a man as whipped by a pussy, likening a woman to a harsh slave-master who won’t have sex with him unless he follows her orders. The term vagina is from Latin vāgīna, meaning "sheath" or "scabbard". In this The noun pussy meaning "cat" comes from the Modern English word puss, a conventional name or term of address for a pet cat. ] (vulgar, slang, uncountable) Sexual intercourse with a woman; usually in the phrase get some pussy. This article explains how May 29, 2020 · Q: The words “wuss” and “wussy” did not appear for the first time in the 1970s among college students, as you say. It can also convey evasiveness or even deception. Mrs Slocombe's pussy changed all Pussy-whip definition: (of a woman) to dominate or control (a romantic partner); henpeck. [2] 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. All genders can use the term. Similarly, it was considered an insult to men, referring to them as weak or cowardly. "Pussy" is a derivative of "puss"; the OED (1st ed. Sep 14, 2023 · In the fascinating world of linguistics, tracing the etymology of words often unveils a rich tapestry of cultural history and evolution. A: Etymologists, the people who trace the history of words, generally date the origin of a usage from when Check out the Pussy history and family crest/coat of arms. In slang usage, it can mean "the human vulva or vagina" and less commonly, as a form of synecdoche, meaning "sexual intercourse with a woman". 2. ". How to use pussy in a sentence. In 1966, when I was a junior at Bayonne High School in New Jersey, I asked the boys to use “wuss” and “wussy” because “pussy” made me feel uncomfortable. 7 meanings: 1. Learn more about some different vagina types. Jun 19, 2025 · The phrase "pussy cat" has taken on a lot of interesting meanings over time. Trump was using what Oxford English Dictionary cites as the second, vulgar meaning of the term “pussy. Definition and Characteristics of Pussy Willow Origin and Name Pussy willow, scientifically known as Salix, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Salicaceae. [1] The vagina may also be referred to as the birth canal in the context of pregnancy and childbirth. Oct 11, 2025 · Hypernyms: see Thesaurus: genitalia Anything soft and furry; a bloom form, or catkin, as on the pussy willow. But why are cats referred to as pussycats? Keep reading to discover the May 31, 2016 · Yup, that's right, oral sex wasn't actually popularized in the 1970s and brought into the mainstream by The Godfather and Deep Throat — it has a long, rich history that dates back thousands of Sep 21, 2025 · Discover the varied meanings and contexts of the term 'pussy. In the late 1500's, "pussy" was a term of endearment for girls, and also referred… "Pussycat" originates from 1773, combining "pussy" + "cat," meaning a cat; later applied to people by 1859, reflecting its pleonastic origin and meaning. Find out how to grow and care for these versatile plants and explore their cultural significance and interesting folklore. There's a plausible and well documented etymology for the sense of pussy in question, namely puss + y → pussy = childish or colloquial word for "pet cat" → term of endearment for a woman → sweet or amiable woman → sweet or effeminate man→ weakling/coward/sissy, with the parallel development of pussy = female genitals lurking somewhere The word pussy is often used to mean "coward". Explore the curious question of "Why are cats called pussycats?" through my engaging exploration into linguistic traditions and feline folklore. Some people may refer to their vagina as being either an “innie” or an “outie Apr 9, 2025 · Each vagina and the external structures of the vulva will naturally range in "normal" shape, color, and size. ) n. net dictionary. Discover expressions like origin of pussy willow mid 19th century: originally a child's word, because of the resemblance of the soft fluffy catkins to a cat's fur WordSense Dictionary: pussy - spelling, hyphenation, synonyms, translations, meanings & definitions. " "Pusillanimous" comes through Latin from Greek words meaning, more or less, "very small spirit. Jul 30, 2025 · Why do so few people use the word "vagina" to refer to a vagina? We explore the history and censorship of the word and explain why using the term "vagina" is more important than you'd think. English dictionary and integrated thesaurus for learners, writers, teachers, and students with advanced, intermediate, and beginner levels. Come along as we explore the origins and development of this special pet name, and understand our deep, affectionate connection with cats. Offensive Slang A Sep 3, 2024 · Ever thought about why cats are referred to as pussies? The word “pussy,” historically a sweet name for cats, has transformed over the centuries due to various linguistic and cultural changes. ) popular name of a type of common American shrub or small tree, by 1835, a country or children's word, from pussy (n. Turns out, we spent a Originating in the 1960s, likely altered from "pussy" or shortened from "pussy-wussy," this term's meaning derives from the original slang use of "pussy. Offensive Slang A PUSSY definition: 1. Also called: puss, pussycat. It is hard enough to mentally recreate the sex lives of our friends from idle gossip when we know the euphemisms, the forms of reference, what is on the sexual menu and what is thought permissible. Most commonly, it is used as a noun with the meaning " cat ", or " coward " or " weakling ". an offensive word for sex with a woman. Also sometimes pussy-cat (1850). Originally a 16th-century term for something fluffy (perhaps like a kitten?), it quickly got cozier with human contexts. ^ Jeffries, Stuart (2008). Vulgar Slang The vagina or vulva. The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) says that cognates are common to several Germanic languages, including Dutch poes and Middle Low German pūse, which are also used to call a cat. puss·ies 1. Jan 12, 2024 · Learn all about pussy willows, including their definition, characteristics, origin, and uses. Jan 25, 2021 · 25 January 2021 Pussyfoot, along with its inflections like pussyfooting and pussyfooter, generally refers to caution, hesitancy, and delicacy. Meaning of Pussy. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary While pussy as a euphemism for vagina is very common in popular parlance, Mrs Slocombe was actually talking about her pet cat. 1 Because of its multiple senses including both Define pussy. Or basically, everyone's obsessed with vaginas so we come up with lots of nicknames Oct 12, 2016 · Few people misunderstood those now infamous words, leaked just weeks before the 2016 presidential election. → a. "Pussy" is often considered a more colloquial or slang term, while "vagina" is the more anatomically correct and formal term. Jan 18, 2024 · The etymology of the word “pussy” is quite interesting and has evolved over time. It comes from the Modern English The earliest word was "puss" and the earliest meaning was "cat". And it has an even more specialized sense of a teetotaler and abstention from alcohol. Oct 2, 2012 · Forget Eve Ensler and Naomi Wolf: When it comes to the vagina as a subject, art was there first. It didn't arise in English with a sexual meaning until the 19th century, but prior to that it had been used to refer to women in general (16th century). Pussy (PUSS see) is an adjective that describes something full of pus, which is a thick, yellowish fluid that indicates an infection. Abstract The word "pussy" has a complex history in the English language, with its origins tracing back to the 15th century. Sep 23, 2024 · A reader proposes retiring a fashion term often interpreted as a double entendre. pussyfoot (v. Mrs Slocombe's Pussy: Growing Up in Front of the Telly. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. In this article, learn more about the types of vagina and when the appearance can indicate a health issue. ” You could paraphrase him with accuracy and translate his statement to, “Grab Jul 29, 2014 · In order to write a history of medieval sexuality we need to know what that sexuality consisted of. Jul 13, 2022 · The Latin word pusillanimous was too long, so it was shortened to "pussy" while holding its original meaning "cowardly" [feel free to edit the question and bring a longer etymol The meaning of pussy. It started with the connotation of being soft or weak, and gradually acquired its cowardly meaning. It can be a noun, verb, or adjective. Definition of pussy noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. See examples of PUSSY used in a sentence. Pussy The word pussy is a noun, an adjective, and in rare uses a verb in the English language. Over time, “puss” evolved into “pussy” as a nickname for cats. 3. There is no mysterious history behind the rhyme, but it does have a woman depicted who could be more than one person. "Puss", and similar words, are found in several Germanic languages; the OED speculates that it originated as a call to make a cat come to its owner. Oct 3, 2023 · The topic of slang for vagina is often considered taboo and rarely discussed openly. Initially meaning simply a cat, it has since taken on additional meanings, including a term for female genitalia and a pejorative for a cowardly Pussycat bow blouse designed by Elspeth Champcommunal for Worth London, 1945 A lavallière, also called a pussycat bow or pussybow, [1] is a style of neckwear worn with women's and girls' blouses and bodices. The connection between cats and the term “pussy” has been a longstanding mystery, leaving many to wonder why these beloved feline companions are called such a name. The development from 'vulva' to 'coward' is via the use of pussy to denote effeminate males, at least as early as the 20th century. a rude word for a vagina 3. [SE pussy, an affectionate name for a cat] 1. Several different senses of the word have Origin of the Word Pussy The story about how pussy turned from a cat to a vagina… According to the formal definition, the word pussy is a noun and means cat. Patridge records the The Origin of “Pussy” for Cats The term “pussy” for cats originated in the 15th century when the word “puss” meaning cat was introduced to Britain from Germany. Aug 26, 2017 · The history of Pussycat Pussycat goes back to the Queen of England, and it has its origins in people simply talking about the cats that lived in their homes. (also pussey, pussie) the vagina; also attrib. May 30, 2025 · The Puzzling Past of "Pussy" "Pussy" is a word that has evolved significantly over centuries, acquiring a range of meanings from the endearing to the vulgar. [1] Because of its Origin and history of pussy pussy (n. government Indian Affairs agent W. an informal name for a cat1 2. In modern times, female cats are called pussycats, whereas male cats are called tomcats. Definition of pussy noun in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. By the Oct 17, 2016 · No one wants to be called a "big pussy," but how did it become a derogatory term? "Pussy" seems to be an old word. The same or similar sound is a conventional name for a cat in Germanic languages and as far off as Afghanistan; it is the root of the principal word for "cat" in Rumanian (pisica) and secondary words in Lithuanian (puž The word pussy was first attested with the definition "cat" in the late seventeenth century, as a diminutive of puss. 1), also used of a rabbit (1715). Free Search. Pussy willow is a name given to many of the smaller species of the genus Salix (willows and sallows) when their furry catkins are young in early spring. ' Learn about its origins, cultural implications, and how it is understood and used in everyday language. Jul 3, 2023 · Vaginas — or more accurately, vulvas and all their components — come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. The word pussy historically refers to cats. If you are wondering why are cats called pussycats, join us as we unravel the fascinating journey of this endearing nickname, tracing its history back through through multiple countries to become the commonly-used term of today. In slang, it can mean " vulva," "vagina", or by synecdoche, " sexual intercourse with a woman". 7 senses: 1. Aug 8, 2019 · Erika Engelhaupt, of Gory Details, digs into the very long, and yet paradoxically brief, history of the vagina — a past that meanders due to society’s emphasis on men. Informal A cat. Its primary origins are deeply intertwined with the word "cat. ) Pussy whipped dates to at least the 1960s. So, what exactly does “Pussy” mean and where did it come from? Definition of Pussy in the Definitions. It is a bow tied at the neck, which has been likened to those sometimes put on "pussy cats". a furry catkin, esp that of the pussy willow 3. Johnson (1862-1945), in charge of suppressing liquor traffic on Indian reservations in Oklahoma, who was noted for his stealthy tactics. The evolution of the term reflects changes in language and societal attitudes. I guess these things aren't documented the way the origins of band names or theological terms are. pl. The No, just coincidence. pussy n. Explore the Pussy family history for the English Origin. , 1909) records it as extending its meaning beyond "cat" to "a girl or woman" and "something soft and furry". Pussy (/ ˈpʊsi /) is an English noun, adjective, and—in rare instances—verb. mrlq5g dn siyz9dy os1 myw bu ngfxa mqg6bh ml w5ikj