catty
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈkæti/
KK: /ˈkæti/
adjective
Definition
Describing someone who is subtly cruel or malicious, often in a sly or spiteful way.
Example
She made a catty comment about her friend's outfit.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: cattier
Superlative: cattiest
Conversation
Did you hear the catty comments Sarah made about Lisa's dress?
Yeah, I thought that was really unnecessary of her.
I know, right? It just seemed so spiteful for no reason.
Totally! It's better to lift each other up instead.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sly
malicious
spiteful
Antonyms
kind
gentle
friendly
noun
Definition
A unit of weight used in Southeast Asia, particularly in China, that is equal to about 500 grams or 1.1 pounds.
Example
The package weighed five catty, which is about 2.5 kilograms.
Conversation
Did you know that a catty is actually a weight measurement?
Really? I thought it was just a name for a type of cat.
Nope, it's equal to about 500 grams, mostly used in Asia.
Root Explanation
The word 'catty' originates from the word 'cat' (from Old English 'catt', meaning a domesticated feline) and the suffix '-y' (meaning characterized by). Thus, 'catty' describes behavior that is characteristic of a cat, often implying slyness or spitefulness.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'cat' and remember that 'catty' describes behavior that is characteristic of a cat, often sly or spiteful.
Visually Confused Words
scatty
clatty
chatty
tatty
ratty
patty
natty
matty