tomcat
Definition
Noun: 1. A male domestic cat, especially one that is not neutered.
Usage
- The word tomcat specifically refers to the sex of the cat. It is often used to describe a male cat's behavior, such as being more territorial or prone to roaming.
- It is a common, informal term. The more general or formal term is simply "male cat."
Examples
- Noun:
- The large tomcat from next door often visits our garden.
- We adopted a friendly tomcat from the shelter.
- An unneutered tomcat will often spray to mark its territory.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used attributively (like an adjective) to describe things associated with male cats.
- He has a real tomcat attitude, always getting into fights.
- In some contexts, "tom" can be used as a shortened, informal form.
- That big tom is the boss of the neighborhood.
Variants and Related Words
- Tom (noun): A shortened, informal form of 'tomcat'.
- Gib (noun): An archaic or regional term for a neutered male cat.
- Queen (noun): A female cat, especially one used for breeding.
Synonyms
- Male cat
- Gib (if neutered)
Antonyms
- Queen (female cat)
- Molly (a term for a female cat)
Related Phrases
- Tomcatting around (informal idiom): Behaving in a promiscuous or aggressively masculine manner, by analogy to the roaming behavior of unneutered male cats.
- In his youth, he was known for tomcatting around the city.
Noun
-
male cat
