cat got someone’s tongue: Idiom Meaning and Origin

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.

One related idiom is "bite one's tongue." This idiom is used to describe a situation when someone refrains from speaking or expressing their thoughts or opinions. It is often used in situations where someone wants to avoid conflict or keep a secret. For example, if someone overhears a conversation that they are not supposed to know about, they may "bite their tongue" to avoid revealing that they have overheard.

Another related idiom is "mouth the words." This idiom is used to describe a situation when someone silently mouths the words of what they want to say, without actually speaking them aloud. It is often used when someone is in a situation where they need to be quiet or when they are too shy or scared to speak out loud. For example, if someone is in a library and they want to ask a question but need to be quiet, they may silently "mouth the words" so as not to disturb others.

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.

Overall, the idiom "cat got someone's tongue" and its related idioms provide a glimpse into the rich and diverse history of the English language. They invite us to explore the origins of these expressions and consider how they have evolved over time. Whether used to describe a surprising moment of silence or to depict someone refraining from speaking, these idioms add depth and nuance to our conversations.