Meaning & Definition of word "Pussyfoot"
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Pussyfoot
/ˈpʌsiˌfʊt/
noun:
- 1. A person who avoids confronting an issue or taking a stand; someone who is overly cautious.
- Example: She called him a pussyfoot for not standing up for his beliefs.
verb:
- 1. To proceed cautiously or to avoid taking definitive action, often out of fear of consequences.
- Example: He decided to pussyfoot around the issue instead of addressing it directly.
- 2. To act in a sneaky or duplicitous manner.
- Example: The politician continued to pussyfoot around the real problems facing the community.
Etymology
The term likely originated in the early 20th century, combining 'pussy' as in 'cat' with 'foot', suggesting a delicate or stealthy approach.
Common Phrases and Expressions
pussyfoot around:
to avoid addressing a topic directly; to be evasive.
Related Words
sneak:
to move quietly and secretly to avoid detection.
tiptoe:
to walk quietly and carefully on the tips of one's toes.
cautious:
careful to avoid potential problems or dangers.
Slang Meanings of pussyfoot
Meaning: to avoid making a decision
Example Sentence: Stop pussyfooting and tell me what you really think!
Meaning: to be indecisive
Example Sentence: He's just pussyfooting around the issue instead of taking action.