What do you mean, cat? - briefly
The phrase "What do you mean, cat?" is a colloquial expression used to seek clarification from someone, often in a casual or informal setting. It is akin to asking "What do you mean?" but with a more relaxed and friendly tone.
What do you mean, cat? - in detail
The phrase "What do you mean, cat?" is a colloquial expression that has evolved from African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and has gained broader cultural recognition, particularly through its usage in music and popular media. The term "cat" in this phrase is a slang term for a person, often used to address someone informally. It originated in the jazz culture of the 1930s and 1940s, where it was used to refer to a musician or someone who was cool and sophisticated.
The phrase itself is used to seek clarification or to express confusion about something that has been said. For example, if someone makes a statement that is unclear or ambiguous, another person might respond with "What do you mean, cat?" to ask for further explanation. This usage reflects the informal and conversational nature of the phrase.
The cultural impact of this phrase is significant. It has been popularized through various forms of media, including movies, television shows, and literature. For instance, it appears in the lyrics of numerous songs, especially those from the jazz and hip-hop genres. This widespread use has helped to solidify the phrase in popular culture, making it recognizable to a broad audience.
Moreover, the phrase embodies a sense of camaraderie and familiarity. Using "cat" to address someone conveys a level of comfort and informality, suggesting that the speaker and the listener share a certain level of understanding or rapport. This aspect of the phrase contributes to its enduring appeal and continued use in contemporary language.
In summary, "What do you mean, cat?" is a phrase that combines elements of AAVE with broader cultural influences. It is used to seek clarification in an informal setting and reflects a sense of familiarity and camaraderie between the speaker and the listener. Its usage in various forms of media has further popularized the phrase, making it a recognizable part of modern language.