cathouse: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, Slang
Quick answer
What does “cathouse” mean?
A building or establishment where cats are kept, bred, or boarded.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A building or establishment where cats are kept, bred, or boarded.
A slang term for a brothel or house of prostitution.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The literal meaning is understood in both varieties. The slang meaning is more strongly associated with American English.
Connotations
In both varieties, the literal meaning is neutral. The slang meaning is considered coarse, derogatory, and dated.
Frequency
The literal meaning is infrequent. The slang meaning is rare in contemporary use, largely replaced by other terms.
Grammar
How to Use “cathouse” in a Sentence
[Subject] visited the cathouse.[Determiner] cathouse on [Location] was [Adjective].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Extremely rare; if used, almost exclusively in its literal sense among cat enthusiasts.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cathouse”
- Using the slang meaning in formal or polite conversation.
- Assuming the listener will understand the intended meaning without clear context.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is low-frequency. The literal meaning is niche, and the slang meaning is dated and vulgar.
It is strongly discouraged. The term is considered archaic, coarse, and potentially offensive. Modern synonyms like 'brothel' are standard in neutral or formal contexts.
Always provide clear context. For the literal meaning, terms like 'cattery' or 'cat boarding' are less ambiguous. The slang meaning should generally be avoided.
No, 'cathouse' is only used as a noun.
A building or establishment where cats are kept, bred, or boarded.
Cathouse is usually informal, slang in register.
Cathouse: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkæt.haʊs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkæt.haʊs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this word]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a HOUSE for CATS. For the slang meaning, remember it's an old, coarse term where 'cat' was sometimes slang for a prostitute.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONTAINER FOR ANIMALS (literal); BUILDING IS A MARKET FOR SEX (slang).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the word 'cathouse' be considered highly inappropriate?