Where does the phrase "like a scalded cat" come from? - briefly
The phrase "like a scalded cat" originates from the behavior of cats that have been burned by hot liquid, such as water or oil. When a cat experiences this sudden pain, it often reacts with extreme agitation and unpredictable movements, which is why the phrase is used to describe someone who is suddenly angry or upset.
Where does the phrase "like a scalded cat" come from? - in detail
The phrase "like a scalded cat" is an idiomatic expression that has been used in English for centuries, but its exact origin remains unclear. The first known printed reference dates back to 1834, appearing in the novel "The Young Duke" by Benjamin Disraeli. However, it's likely that the phrase was in common usage long before this date.
The expression is used to describe someone who is startled or frightened, causing them to react with sudden and often frantic movements. The comparison to a scalded cat is apt because cats are known for their agility and quick reflexes. When suddenly burned by hot water (or "scalded"), a cat would exhibit rapid, jerky movements as it tries to escape the pain, much like a person who is startled or frightened.
Despite its widespread use, there is no definitive record of how this particular phrase entered the English language. It may have originated from rural or working-class settings where such incidents were more common, and the vivid image of a cat's reaction to being scalded would have been readily understood by many people.
Over time, "like a scalded cat" has become a colorful and evocative way to describe someone's sudden, panicked movements or reactions. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to the universal nature of startling experiences and the ease with which we can relate to the cat's desperate attempts to escape discomfort.