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Idiom of the day

Like a cat on a hot tin roof

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe someone who is extremely agitated, nervous, or restless, often due to anxiety, tension, or discomfort. It implies a state of heightened nervousness or unease, similar to how a cat might react when placed on a hot surface.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “He’s been pacing back and forth like a cat on a hot tin roof ever since he heard the news.”
  2. “Waiting for the exam results had her feeling like a cat on a hot tin roof.”
  3. “The tension in the room had everyone on edge, pacing around like cats on hot tin roofs.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “like a cat on a hot tin roof” is attributed to Tennessee Williams’ play “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” first performed in 1955. In the play, the character Brick is described as feeling restless and agitated, much like a cat on a hot surface, due to the emotional turmoil and tension within his family. Over time, the phrase “like a cat on a hot tin roof” evolved into a common idiom used to describe nervousness or agitation in various situations.

Like a cat on a hot tin roof
Idiom of the day

Cat got your tongue?

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Meaning: This idiom is used to question someone’s unusual silence or lack of response in a situation where they are expected to speak or respond. It implies puzzlement or curiosity about why the person is remaining silent.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “Why aren’t you saying anything? Cat’s got your tongue?”
  2. “After being asked a direct question by the teacher, Jack just sat there silently, as if the cat had got his tongue.”
  3. “She usually has plenty to say in meetings, but today it seems like the cat’s got her tongue.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “cat got your tongue” is uncertain, but it likely dates back several centuries. One theory suggests that the phrase may have originated from ancient Egypt, where liars’ tongues were believed to be fed to cats as punishment. Another theory suggests that the expression may have originated from medieval times when it was believed that witches could silence their victims by stealing their tongues and giving them to cats. Regardless of its origin, the idiom has become a common way to express surprise or confusion at someone’s silence.