A1noun1K

Cat

UK /["/kæt/"]/US /["/kæt/"]/

Definition

a small animal with soft fur that people often keep as a pet. Cats catch and kill birds and mice.

In simple words: A small, furry animal that people keep as pets.

Examples

  • My cat loves to chase the laser pointer.
  • The cat is sleeping on the couch.
  • Did you see that cute cat in the garden?
  • She has a big cat that likes to eat a lot.
  • There are many different breeds of cat around the world.

Usage notes

Use 'cat' to refer to the animal in most situations. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, such as conversations about pets or animal care.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'Cuddle and purr', which cats often do.

Collocations

  • domestic
  • family
  • house
  • have
  • keep
  • own
  • hiss
  • mew
  • miaow/​meow
  • door
  • flap
  • food
  • fight like cat and dog
  • fight like cats and dogs
  • play (a game of) cat and mouse
  • domestic
  • family
  • house
  • have
  • keep
  • own
  • hiss
  • mew
  • miaow/​meow
  • door
  • flap
  • food
  • fight like cat and dog
  • fight like cats and dogs
  • play (a game of) cat and mouse

Synonyms

  • feline
  • kitty
  • domestic cat
  • house cat

Antonyms

  • dog
  • canine
  • puppy

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'kitten', which refers to a baby cat.
  • Using 'cats' when talking about one cat.
  • Forgetting to capitalize 'Cat' when starting a sentence.