korat cat
LowFormal (specialized), Informal (hobbyist/owner contexts)
Definition
Meaning
A specific breed of domestic cat that is silver-blue with green eyes, originating in Thailand.
Often refers to the cat breed known for its distinct appearance, intelligence, and affectionate nature; sometimes used metonymically for a cat with these specific characteristics or origin.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
A proper noun used as a breed name; therefore often capitalized. It functions as a compound noun, rarely separated.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant usage differences; spelling and pronunciation are consistent. The term is equally specialized in both varieties.
Connotations
Connotes expertise in or familiarity with cat breeds; considered a niche, specific term.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language; appears almost exclusively in cat fancy contexts, pet magazines, or breed-specific discussions.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[owner] has/owns a Korat cat.The [adjective] Korat cat [verb].Korat cats are known for [quality].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Good luck cat (refers to traditional Thai belief that Korats bring good fortune).”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in niche pet supply, breeding, or veterinary marketing targeting specific breed owners.
Academic
Appears in zoology, genetics, or animal husbandry papers on cat breeds.
Everyday
Used by cat owners, enthusiasts, or in pet adoption contexts.
Technical
Precise term in cat fancier association standards, veterinary breed identification, and genetics.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- N/A for this noun phrase.
American English
- N/A for this noun phrase.
adverb
British English
- N/A for this noun phrase.
American English
- N/A for this noun phrase.
adjective
British English
- N/A. The word is not used adjectivally.
American English
- N/A. The word is not used adjectivally.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I like the grey Korat cat.
- This is a Korat cat.
- The Korat cat has beautiful green eyes.
- She wants to buy a Korat cat for her family.
- Originating from Thailand, the Korat cat is renowned for its loyalty and affectionate nature.
- Unlike other blue cats, the Korat's fur has silver tips, giving it a distinctive shimmer.
- The felinological standards stipulate that the Korat cat must possess a heart-shaped face and luminous peridot-green eyes.
- Despite its ancient lineage, the Korat was only formally recognized by Western cat registries in the mid-20th century.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: "Korat" sounds like 'core-at' the heart of Thailand, where this silver-blue cat comes from.
Conceptual Metaphor
A LIVING HEIRLOOM (treasured and passed down, from its traditional role as a gift).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation like "кошачий кот" which is redundant. Use "кошка породы корат".
- Do not confuse with similar-sounding words like "карта" (map) or "карат" (carat).
Common Mistakes
- Misspelling as 'Karat cat' (confusion with gem measurement).
- Mispronouncing as /kəˈræt/.
- Using as a general term for any grey cat.
Practice
Quiz
What is the most distinctive feature of a Korat cat's appearance?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No cat is truly hypoallergenic. Korats have a single coat, which may produce less dander than double-coated breeds, but they are not specifically classified as hypoallergenic.
The name comes from the Nakhon Ratchasima province in Thailand, which is informally called 'Korat'.
While both are blue-grey, the Korat has a single coat that is silver-tipped, a heart-shaped face, and green eyes. The Russian Blue has a double coat, a wedge-shaped head, and vivid green eyes.
Yes, they are known for being affectionate, gentle, and forming strong bonds with their human families. They are generally good with considerate children.