The word "catty" can have two different meanings, so let’s break them down.
When we use "catty" as an adjective, it describes someone who is being mean or spiteful, often in a clever or indirect way. It usually refers to comments or remarks that are hurtful but may seem innocent on the surface.
In more advanced contexts, "catty" can be used to describe behavior in competitive social settings, particularly among women. It suggests a subtle or indirect form of aggression.
In a different context, "catty" can refer to a unit of weight used in Southeast Asia, particularly in China. One catty is equal to 500 grams.
For the adjective meaning: - Malicious - Spiteful - Mean-spirited - Sassy (in a playful way)
While there are no common idioms or phrasal verbs specifically using "catty," one could use phrases like "throwing shade" to describe similar behavior of being subtly unkind.
In summary, "catty" can describe someone who makes hurtful comments in a clever way or refer to a unit of weight in some Asian countries.