How Do You Spell FRAIDY CAT?

Pronunciation: [fɹˈe͡ɪdi kˈat] (IPA)

Correct spelling for the English word "fraidy cat" is [fɹˈe͡ɪdi kˈat], [fɹˈe‍ɪdi kˈat], [f_ɹ_ˈeɪ_d_i k_ˈa_t] (IPA phonetic alphabet).

FRAIDY CAT Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "fraidy cat," also commonly spelled as "scaredy cat," is a colloquial noun used to describe a person who is easily frightened or fearful. Derived from the words "fraidy," an informal abbreviation of afraid, and "cat," referring to a feline animal known for its cautious and timid behavior, this term characterizes individuals who display an exaggerated or excessive fear of various situations or stimuli.

    A fraidy cat can be perceived as lacking courage or bravery, often seeking protection or avoiding potentially intimidating circumstances. This term may be used playfully, teasingly, or even affectionately to describe someone who tends to feel anxious, nervous, or panicked in situations that others may find ordinary or non-threatening.

    The phrase "fraidy cat" frequently denotes a person who is easily scared or startled, displaying a heightened startle response and discomfort towards situations that involve uncertainty, danger, or discomfort. This designation can encompass a wide scope of fears, such as fear of spiders, heights, public speaking, darkness, or social interactions. It may also extend to irrational or irrationalized fears, known as phobias, which disrupt one's daily functioning.

    Overall, "fraidy cat" is a casual term used to describe someone who consistently or excessively experiences fear, apprehension, or nervousness in various contexts. While it may not have a formal usage in dictionaries, its widespread colloquial use allows it to be easily understood and conveyed in conversations.

Common Misspellings for FRAIDY CAT

  • fraidey-cat
  • fraidy-cat
  • fraydy-cat
  • freidycat
  • fraideycat
  • Freaddy Cat
  • Fraydey Cat
  • Fraidie Cat

Etymology of FRAIDY CAT

The word "fraidy cat" is a colloquial term in English, used to describe a person who is easily frightened or timid. etymology of this term can be traced to a combination of two separate words: "afraid" and "cat".

The word "afraid" dates back to the late Middle English period, derived from Old English "āfyrhtan", meaning "fill with fear". It evolved through various iterations in different Germanic languages before settling on its current form.

The term "cat" refers to the domesticated feline animal, which has been a common household pet for centuries. Cats have long been associated with being cautious and on guard, especially in situations where they feel threatened or scared.

The combination of "afraid" and "cat" creates the phrase "fraidy cat", used to describe someone who displays similar traits of fear and timidity as a cautious or scared cat.

Idioms with the word FRAIDY CAT

  • fraidy cat A "fraidy cat" is a person who is easily scared or fearful of a situation, often avoiding it out of fear.

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