scaredy cat

English

noun
Definitions
  • (alternative form of) scaredy-cat

Etymology

Compound from English scared + English -y (having the quality of, forming adjectives of lesser degree, diminutive suffix, forming diminutives, forming adjs. of slightly lesser degree, forming affectionate diminutives, forming adjectives)+ English cat (former derogatory term for a person).

Origin

English

cat

Gloss

former derogatory term for a person

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms