fraidy-cat: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, Colloquial, Childish/Playful
Quick answer
What does “fraidy-cat” mean?
A person who is easily frightened or timid, particularly in a childish or contemptible way.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person who is easily frightened or timid, particularly in a childish or contemptible way.
A term used to describe someone who avoids actions or situations due to fear, often used in a mildly mocking or teasing manner. It sometimes carries a nuance of being irrationally or unnecessarily afraid.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is predominantly American in origin and usage, though it is understood in the UK.
Connotations
In the US, it's a common, somewhat old-fashioned childhood taunt. In the UK, it is recognized but feels more like an Americanism; a more typical British childish equivalent might be 'scaredy-cat' or 'big baby'.
Frequency
Much more frequent in American English. In British English, 'scaredy-cat' is the more common variant.
Grammar
How to Use “fraidy-cat” in a Sentence
[Subject] is a fraidy-cat.Don't be such a fraidy-cat![Subject] called [Object] a fraidy-cat.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “fraidy-cat” in a Sentence
adjective
American English
- That was a fraidy-cat move.
- He's being all fraidy-cat about the rollercoaster.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Used in informal, teasing contexts, especially with children or among friends.
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “fraidy-cat”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “fraidy-cat”
- Using it in formal writing.
- Spelling as 'fraidy cat' (acceptable) but not 'fraidycat' or 'frady-cat'.
- Applying it to describe genuine, rational fear.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is usually meant in a light-hearted, teasing way, especially among children or close friends. However, it can be hurtful if the person is genuinely scared or if said with malicious intent.
They are nearly identical in meaning and usage. 'Fraidy-cat' is more common in American English, while 'scaredy-cat' is more common in British English, though both are understood in both varieties.
Typically no. When used by adults, it's almost always humorous, self-deprecating, or deliberately childish. Using it in a serious, critical context would sound immature or odd.
Yes, it's informal, colloquial slang, often classified as childish slang. It is not suitable for formal writing or speech.
A person who is easily frightened or timid, particularly in a childish or contemptible way.
Fraidy-cat is usually informal, colloquial, childish/playful in register.
Fraidy-cat: in British English it is pronounced /ˈfreɪ.di ˌkæt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈfreɪ.di ˌkæt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Don't be a fraidy-cat!”
- “He's nothing but a big fraidy-cat.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a cat that's always 'afraid' (fraidy) – a 'fraidy-cat'.
Conceptual Metaphor
FEAR IS WEAKNESS / A PERSON WHO IS AFRAID IS A TIMID ANIMAL (CAT).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would 'fraidy-cat' be MOST appropriate?