catlike

[kat-lahyk]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of catlike¹

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

Example Sentences

Sleek black armor covers every inch of him, except for his eyes; gray as smoke and catlike, they’re set on General Sharpe.

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He’s hidden by darkness, but I can make out his eyes—gray as smoke and catlike.

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Time magazine described her as “moving about the stage with catlike grace, her rich, ringing voice zooming with ease through the high, precarious lines,” and as a “girl with veins of fire.”

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

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

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