tom-cat

A large tom-cat sits on a sunny windowsill.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A male domestic cat: "tom-cat" refers specifically to an adult male cat, especially one that is not neutered.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The tom-cat roamed the neighbourhood, marking his territory. (A male cat that wanders and claims its area.)
  • She adopted a stray tom-cat from the shelter. (A male cat without a home.)

Advanced Usage

• "Tom-catting" (informal, verb form): The behaviour of a male cat roaming in search of mates; sometimes used metaphorically for a man who pursues romantic or sexual adventures.
  • He spent his twenties tom-catting around town. (He behaved like a roaming male cat, seeking casual relationships.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tom (n): a shortened form of "tom-cat," used informally.

  • That old tom is always fighting with the neighbours' cats. (That male cat.)

• Tomcat (n): a variant spelling of "tom-cat," often written as one word.

  • The tomcat yowled all night. (The male cat made loud calls.)

Synonyms

• Male cat: a straightforward synonym.
• Tome: not a synonym; a "tome" is a large book — caution against confusion.

Related Idioms

• "Like a tom-cat on a hot tin roof" (informal, simile): describes someone who is restless, agitated, or unable to stay still.
  • He was pacing back and forth like a tom-cat on a hot tin roof. (He was extremely nervous or impatient.)

Phrasal Verbs

• No common phrasal verbs are associated with "tom-cat" as a noun. However, the informal verb "to tom-cat around" (see Advanced Usage) functions like a phrasal verb.