clowder: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Literary, Technical (Zoology)
Quick answer
What does “clowder” mean?
A collective noun for a group of domestic cats.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A collective noun for a group of domestic cats.
A term used specifically in zoology and by cat enthusiasts to denote a gathering of cats, typically in a domestic or feral setting. It does not refer to wild big cats (e.g., lions, which form a pride).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The word is equally rare and specialised in both varieties.
Connotations
Conveys a sense of whimsy, antiquity, or specialised knowledge in both regions.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both BrE and AmE. Its use is almost exclusively confined to lists of collective nouns, trivia, or by cat breed enthusiasts.
Grammar
How to Use “clowder” in a Sentence
[Determiner] + clowder + of + catsVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Rarely used in zoological texts; more common in linguistic discussions of collective nouns.
Everyday
Virtually never used. Would be considered unusual or pretentious.
Technical
Used as a precise term in felinology (the study of cats) and in animal shelter management.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “clowder”
- Using it for wild cats (use 'pride' for lions).
- Pronouncing it as /ˈkloʊdər/ (like 'closer').
- Using it as a verb or adjective.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very rare, specialised collective noun. Most native speakers would not know it or use it in daily conversation.
It is typically used for adult domestic cats. A group of kittens is more specifically called a 'kindle' or 'litter'.
Both are collective nouns for cats. 'Clowder' is the more standard term, while 'clutter' is a less common variant. They are essentially synonymous.
For general English, it is low priority. It is useful for C2-level learners, trivia enthusiasts, or those working in veterinary/zoological fields related to cats.
A collective noun for a group of domestic cats.
Clowder is usually formal, literary, technical (zoology) in register.
Clowder: in British English it is pronounced /ˈklaʊdə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈklaʊdər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No established idioms.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a cat sitting on a CLOUD, but it's actually a CLOUDER (clowder) of many cats piled together.
Conceptual Metaphor
ANIMALS ARE SOCIETIES (with specific, often quaint, titles for their groups).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most accurate definition of 'clowder'?