rain dogs and cats: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘rain dogs and cats’ mean?
The idiom "rain dogs and cats" is used to describe a heavy and intense rainfall. It implies a downpour that is chaotic, loud, and unpredictable, just like the behavior of dogs and cats during a storm.
Idiom Explorer
A colloquial expression referring to a heavy rain or storm that pours down with great intensity, often causing flooding or making it difficult to see. The phrase is used to describe a downpour of rain that seems as if it could soak a toad.
The idiom "ride someone hard and put them away wet" means to use someone relentlessly and then discard them without consideration for their well-being or feelings.
The idiom "rain fire and brimstone" refers to a strong, forceful, and harsh speech or verbal attack that is filled with anger, condemnation, or threats. It is often used to describe a passionate and intense expression of disapproval or criticism.
The idiom *rain down* means to fall or descend in large quantities or with force, often used metaphorically to describe a sudden and overwhelming occurrence or event.
The idiom "rain cats and dogs" means heavy or torrential rain.
The idiom "rain buckets" means to rain heavily or pour down. It can be used both literally, describing heavy rainfall, and figuratively, to describe a situation with a large amount of something.
The idiom "rainbows and unicorns" is used to describe a situation or perspective that is overly optimistic, idealistic, or lacking in realism.
The idiom "rack and ruin" means to be in a state of complete destruction or collapse.
The idiom "put the cat among the pigeons" means to do or say something that causes confusion, trouble, or controversy, resulting in a chaotic or unsettled situation.
Esoteric Interpretation
The idiom "rain dogs and cats" is not commonly used in the United States but is associated with British English. It describes a heavy rainstorm or downpour. The origins of this idiom are uncertain, but there are a few theories about where it may have come from.
One theory suggests that the idiom may have come from the Old English word "catadupe," which means a waterfall. Over time, this word may have changed to "cat-and-dogs" and eventually to "cats and dogs." Another theory proposes that the idiom originated from Norse mythology, which believed that cats and dogs were connected to storms and rain.
rain cats and dogs, a commonly used idiom, has a similar meaning to rain dogs and cats. It also refers to a heavy rainstorm or downpour. The phrase is thought to have originated in the 17th century and has been widely used ever since. This idiom is often used to emphasize the intensity of the rain and can be found in literature, movies, and everyday conversations.
Another related idiom is "rain down." This phrase is used to describe the action of rain falling heavily or in large amounts. It can also be used figuratively to describe a situation where something is happening or coming down forcefully or abundantly.
rain buckets is another idiom related to rain dogs and cats. This expression is used to describe a very heavy rain or downpour. It is often used to emphasize the intensity and volume of the rain. The phrase "it's raining buckets" indicates that the rain is pouring down in large quantities.
The idiom "rain fire and brimstone" is used to describe a situation or event that involves intense and forceful actions or behavior. While not directly related to rain itself, this idiom emphasizes the strength and power of the rain. It suggests that the rain is forceful and relentless, just like fire and brimstone.
Another related idiom is "toad-strangler." This expression is used to describe a very heavy rainstorm or downpour. It is a playful and colorful way to describe intense rainfall and implies that the rain is so heavy that it could drown a toad. It emphasizes the volume and intensity of the rain.
Returning to the idiom "rain dogs and cats," it is interesting to note that it has not gained widespread usage in American English. This may be due to regional idioms and expressions, as well as different cultural influences on language. In the United States, the more commonly used idiom is "it's raining cats and dogs." However, language is constantly evolving, and the usage of idioms can change over time.
Rain dogs and cats is an intriguing idiom that adds color and richness to the English language. While its origins may remain a mystery, its usage in British English and its association with heavy rain or a downpour make it a peculiar and expressive expression. Whether it gains popularity in American English or fades into obscurity, the idiom will continue to be a unique piece of linguistic history.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *rain dogs and cats* can be used in a sentence:
- The storm was so intense that it felt like it was raining dogs and cats.
- After a long dry spell, the sudden downpour was as if it was raining dogs and cats.
- She opened the door to find her yard flooded, as if it had rained dogs and cats.
More "Weather" idioms
