cat-and-dog

[ kat-n-dawg, -dog ]

adjective

1. continuously or unceasingly vicious and destructive:

   cat-and-dog competition.

2. Slang. (of a security) highly speculative and of questionable value.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cat-and-dog¹

First recorded in 1570–80

Example Sentences

We lived a cat-and-dog existence, and parted with mutual recriminations, since when I have not seen her!

From Project Gutenberg

Consternation versus Hilarity went racing suddenly like a cat-and-dog combat across his eyes.

From Project Gutenberg

The Angevin cat-and-dog nature was fairly divided between these two.

From Project Gutenberg

Skippy, whose relations with the opposite sex were of the cat-and-dog variety, solemnly raised his hand.

From Project Gutenberg

Lady Flo: Nevertheless, I assure you they lead a cat-and-dog existence.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• belligerent
• cantankerous
• combative
• contentious
• fractious
• litigious
• petulant
• tempestuous
• turbulent
• unruly