Where did the expression "like cats and dogs" come from? - briefly
The expression "like cats and dogs" originates from the observation that cats and dogs are natural enemies and often exhibit aggressive behavior towards each other. This idiom is used to describe a situation where two or more parties are in conflict or intense disagreement with one another.
Where did the expression "like cats and dogs" come from? - in detail
The idiomatic expression "like cats and dogs" is often used to describe heavy rainfall, typically in the context of torrential downpours that make walking or driving outside particularly challenging. This vivid metaphor has an interesting origin rooted in historical observations and cultural associations.
The phrase likely emerged from the behavior of animals during inclement weather. Cats and dogs are both known for their aversion to rain, which can be attributed to their evolutionary history and sensory perceptions. Cats, being meticulous groomers, dislike getting wet as it disrupts their fastidious cleaning routines. Dogs, while more varied in their responses to rain, often exhibit reluctance to venture out into heavy rain due to the discomfort caused by the water's impact on their fur and skin.
In many cultures, these observations have been translated into common expressions that highlight the intensity of rain. The phrase "it's raining cats and dogs" is believed to have originated in England during the 17th century. One theory suggests that it may be derived from an earlier expression, "raineth cats and dogs," which appeared in a book by Henry Lyte in 1653. This older phrase is thought to refer to the mythical belief that witches could transform into animals, with heavy rain signifying their presence or activity.
Another theory proposes that the expression originated from the days when roads were not paved and consisted of dirt paths. During heavy rain, these unpaved roads would become muddy and slippery, making it difficult for people to walk or ride their carriages. The analogy to cats and dogs being disturbed and displaced by the rain was a fitting description of the chaotic and challenging conditions on the ground.
Regardless of its precise origin, the expression "like cats and dogs" has become deeply ingrained in English language and culture, serving as a colorful way to describe intense precipitation. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its vivid imagery and universal relatability, as people across different regions and eras have experienced the discomfort of navigating through heavy rain.