[Vulgarity warning] Where did this word come from?

r3nu4l

Warning added for those of a sensitive nature...

Many people use the slang word 'pussy' to mean 'Coward', as in 'don't be such a "pussy"!'

I've a few thoughts on this but wondered, which, if any are correct.

The word could have its origins in 'scaredy cat', or 'the cowardly lion'.

Or perhaps it comes from Pusillanimous (lacking in courage or strength of purpose).

Alternatively I suppose, it could come from a comparison of a man to a woman in an attempt to demasculate and put him down by the assumption that the male gender is stronger/better.

Does anyone here know? [Sensible] Replies appreciated.

Faith

Interesting question. I've never thought about it in too much detail, but assumed it was something to do with cats. If you describe a cat as a pussy cat, it implies a gentle and tame nature, so I figured using the term pussy was just a short version of pussy cat.

I'd be interested to know the correct answer though.

r3nu4l

Faith wrote: »

Interesting question. I've never thought about it in too much detail

I hadn't either until I saw this today. Some very nice and interesting words there and the definition of pusillanimous got me thinking.

hullaballoo

Well, according to my online Bible for etymological queries (and it's surprising how often I refer to it!): http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?search=pussy&searchmode=none.

Interesting one!