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Synonyms

catlike

American  
[kat-lahyk] / ˈkætˌlaɪk /

adjective

  1. resembling or typical of a cat.

    catlike eyes.

  2. swift and graceful.

  3. stealthy and noiseless.

    The scouts crept up on their quarry with catlike tread.


Etymology

Origin of catlike

First recorded in 1590–1600; cat ( def. ) + -like

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Here, the imagery flickers between the mortal world and more forbidden realms — ghostly knights, ships, catlike creatures.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 31, 2024

She moved slowly, catlike, and seemed not too concerned.

From Slate • Nov. 26, 2023

When he goes inside, he sees that it has been enveloped in darkness and taken over by evil, shadowy creatures that can resemble everything from blobs to catlike predators.

From Scientific American • Oct. 20, 2023

He portrayed a cat policeman, he said in a 2016 interview for the Primary Stages Off-Broadway Oral History Project, and he particularly remembered delivering one line, catlike: “I have neeews.”

From New York Times • May 16, 2023

A caged catlike animal with blond fur and black spots purrs.

From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton

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