Etymology The noun pussy meaning "cat" comes from the Modern English word puss, a conventional name or term of address for a cat. Cognates are common to several Germanic languages, including Dutch poes and Middle Low German pūse, which are also used to call a cat. The word puss is attested in English as early as 1533. Earlier etymology is uncertain, but similar words exist in other European languages, including Lithuanian puižė and Irish puisín, both traditional calls to attract a cat.
Etymology The noun pussy meaning "cat" comes from the Modern English word puss a conventional name or term of address for a cat. Cognates are common to several Germanic languages, including Dutch poes and Middle Low German pūse, which are also used to call a cat. The word puss is attested in English as early as 1533. Earlier etymology is uncertain but similar words exist in other European languages, including Lithuanian puižė and Irish puisín, both traditional calls to attract a cat.