cool cat: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Informal, slang, dated but understood
Quick answer
What does “cool cat” mean?
A person who is stylish, fashionable, self-assured, and socially impressive, often associated with jazz and popular culture from the mid-20th century.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person who is stylish, fashionable, self-assured, and socially impressive, often associated with jazz and popular culture from the mid-20th century.
A person who remains calm, composed, and unflappable, especially in social situations; someone admired for their effortless confidence and modern style.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term originated in American English (specifically African American Vernacular English and jazz slang). It was adopted into British English via cultural imports (music, film) and retains a stronger 'American vintage' flavour in the UK.
Connotations
In the US, it may evoke a more authentic connection to its jazz/beatnik roots. In the UK, it often has a slightly more nostalgic or imitative connotation, referencing American pop culture.
Frequency
Much more frequent in American English historically. In contemporary use, it is rare in both varieties but used more often in the US, typically in nostalgic or deliberately retro contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “cool cat” in a Sentence
be a cool catdress like a cool catthink of sb as a cool catVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cool cat” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He tried to cool-cat his way through the interview, but his nerves showed.
American English
- Don't just cool-cat around; we need a decision.
adverb
British English
- He strolled cool-cat into the room.
American English
- She played the solo cool-cat, without a hint of effort.
adjective
British English
- He had a very cool-cat vibe about him.
- The party had a cool-cat aesthetic.
American English
- That's a cool-cat jacket you're wearing.
- She gave a cool-cat nod of approval.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Almost never used. If used, it would be in a very informal, metaphorical way to describe a confident and stylish colleague: 'He negotiates like a cool cat.'
Academic
Only used in historical/cultural studies discussing 20th-century slang, jazz, or youth culture.
Everyday
Used playfully or nostalgically among older generations or those interested in vintage culture. Not part of core contemporary slang.
Technical
Not applicable.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cool cat”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cool cat”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cool cat”
- Using it in formal contexts.
- Using it to describe someone who is physically cold or aloof in a negative way.
- Overusing it; it sounds forced if not used in the right nostalgic/playful tone.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is considered dated slang. It is primarily used nostalgically, humorously, or in discussions of historical pop culture.
Yes, although it was historically used more for men, it can be applied to anyone displaying the requisite style and composure. The term 'cool kitten' was sometimes used for women but is even more dated and potentially patronising.
'Cool cat' specifically evokes a vintage, often jazz or beatnik-associated style of coolness—effortless, stylish, and quietly confident. 'Cool' is a broader, more contemporary term for general approval or composure.
It is not inherently offensive, but it may sound odd, cheesy, or condescending if used without a shared understanding of its playful, retro tone. Context and relationship are key.
A person who is stylish, fashionable, self-assured, and socially impressive, often associated with jazz and popular culture from the mid-20th century.
Cool cat is usually informal, slang, dated but understood in register.
Cool cat: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkuːl ˈkæt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkul ˈkæt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “He's the coolest cat in town.”
- “Too cool for school.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a jazz-playing CAT wearing sunglasses, perfectly calm and COOL, not even chasing the mouse running by.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SOCIALLY ADEPT PERSON IS A COMPOSED, STYLISH FELINE (cat metaphor for a person + temperature metaphor for emotional state).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'cool cat' MOST appropriately used today?