How do you say "calico cat" in English? - briefly
A "calico cat" is the term used in English to describe a cat with a tri-color coat pattern, typically white, black, and orange.
How do you say "calico cat" in English? - in detail
The term "calico cat" is directly used in English to describe a cat with a specific coat pattern characterized by three distinct colors: white, black, and orange (or their diluted forms, such as gray and cream). This pattern is not linked to any particular breed but rather refers to the coloration of the cat's fur. The name "calico" originates from the word "Calicut," a city in India known for producing multicolored textiles, which the cat's coat resembles. Calico cats are often predominantly white with patches of the other two colors distributed in a random or blotchy manner. The genetics behind this pattern are fascinating; it is primarily seen in female cats due to the involvement of X-chromosome inactivation, which determines the expression of the orange and black colors. Male calico cats are rare and usually sterile, as they require an extra X chromosome (XXY) to exhibit the pattern. In some cultures, calico cats are considered symbols of good luck or fortune. The term is widely recognized and used in English-speaking countries to describe this distinctive and visually striking feline coat pattern.