The Village Idiom

cat got someone's tongue

The idiom "cat got someone's tongue" means that a person is unable to speak or is choosing to remain silent, often due to shyness, embarrassment, or being surprised by something. It is a metaphorical expression indicating temporary speechlessness.

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In a sentence

  • She was so nervous during the interview that the cat got her tongue, and she couldn't say a word.
  • When the teacher asked the student a question, the cat seemed to have gotten his tongue as he hesitated to respond.
  • During the meeting, everyone was silent and it was as if the cat had got their tongues.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "cat got someone's tongue" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe a situation when someone is unusually silent or speechless. The origins of this idiom can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where cats were considered sacred.

One possible theory suggests that the idiom may have originated from the ancient Egyptian belief that cats possessed the power to steal a person's voice. In Egyptian mythology, the goddess Bastet was often depicted as a lioness-headed woman or as a domestic cat. It was believed that she could enchant or control a person's vocal cords, rendering them speechless.

Another theory suggests that the idiom may have its origins in medieval Europe. During the Middle Ages, cats were associated with witchcraft and were often believed to be companions of witches. If someone suspected that a witch was nearby or if they were in the presence of a witch, they would say that the cat had their tongue to acknowledge their silence or inability to speak freely.

Regardless of its exact origins, the idiom "cat got someone's tongue" has gained popularity and has become a part of everyday speech. It is used in various contexts to describe situations when someone is unexpectedly silent or unable to respond verbally.

Yet another related idiom is "bite one's lip." This idiom is used to describe a situation when someone stays quiet or holds back from speaking out, usually because they are upset, angry, or trying to remain composed. It is often used when someone wants to avoid arguing or saying something hurtful. For example, if someone is in a disagreement with a friend but wants to maintain the friendship, they may "bite their lip" to avoid saying something that may escalate the situation.

While the exact origins of the idiom "cat got someone's tongue" may be uncertain, it is clear that the phrase has become a widely recognized and used idiom in the English language. Its association with Egyptian mythology and medieval beliefs adds an intriguing layer to its meaning.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.