The idiom “curiosity killed the cat” warns that acting on curiosity can be dangerous, stemming from cats’ natural curiosity. It can be used in various situations, discouraging physical harm or nosiness. It suggests that quiet individuals are more desirable, and can be used to scare children from exploring. The phrase “curiosity killed the cat” is […]
A cat nap is a short period of sleep during waking hours that can range from a few minutes to an hour. It is believed to increase productivity and mental alertness, and some countries have designated nap times for employees. Many notable people, including Winston Churchill and Albert Einstein, were proponents of daily naps. Cat […]
CAT bonds are high yield bonds that cancel debt in the event of a catastrophe, posing a risk to lenders. They are promoted as a way to diversify risk and are not tied to stock sectors. However, investors are not always fully informed about the risks, and some traders bet on natural catastrophes. A catastrophe […]
Black cats have been victims of superstitions for millennia, with many cultures viewing them as unfortunate beasts. However, some cultures revered the animal, such as ancient Egyptians who worshipped black cats. The negative attitude towards black cats may have come from the Crusades and early Americans’ preoccupation with witchcraft. While the superstition that a black […]
A study at Carroll University of Wisconsin found that cat people tend to have more “liberalistic” traits, while dog people are more outgoing and interested in others. Previous research has also found differences between the two groups. Cats have known this forever: they are smarter than dog owners. Whether that’s fact or fantasy depends on […]
The idiom “cat among pigeons” refers to intentionally causing a disturbance. It comes from Britain and describes the chaos that would ensue if a cat were released among captive birds. The phrase is not to be taken literally and has been used in literature and music. The phrase “cat among pigeons” is an idiom that […]
A cat burglar is a thief who sneaks into homes undetected to steal personal property, but can also steal from other buildings. The term can also refer to any burglar who enters unauthorized property with the intent to steal or vandalize. The term may not apply to thieves who use violence or lack stealth. Catwoman […]
The phrase “leave the cat out of the bag” refers to revealing a secret. Its origin comes from medieval markets where unscrupulous merchants would substitute a cat for cattle in bags. The customer would only discover the scam upon opening the bag, so it was important not to let the cat out of the bag […]
The idiom “cat’s whiskers” is a positive way to describe something outstanding. Its origin is debated, but it has been used since the early 20th century. It is universally positive and can be used to describe romantic attraction, exemplary work, or a child’s achievement. While less common now, it still conveys warm feelings and can […]
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