What do you imagine when someone says, “it’s raining cats and dogs”? Do you picture furry felines and pooches plummeting from the sky? Of course, in reality, we’re talking about a heavy downpour. But where did this curious phrase come from? Let’s delve into the historical and linguistic roots of “it’s raining cats and dogs”.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- “It’s raining cats and dogs” is a phrase used to describe heavy rainfall.
- The phrase has several possible origins, with roots in mythology, folklore, and literature.
- The specific choice of cats and dogs may stem from their connection to weather and the supernatural in various cultures.
- The phrase has fallen slightly out of favor in modern English, but continues to be used and recognized worldwide.
Definition of the Phrase
Before we unravel the mystery behind its origin, let’s first understand what “it’s raining cats and dogs” actually means. It’s an idiom used to describe a particularly heavy rainstorm. The phrase is a staple in English language, with its first recorded use dating back to the 17th century.
Possible Origins
The origins of this phrase are obscured in the mists of time. However, several theories have been put forth. Let’s explore a few of them.
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Superstitions and Folklore: One theory suggests that the phrase might have its roots in ancient superstitions and folklore where cats and dogs were believed to have influence over the weather. They were often associated with rain, wind, and storm. Cats were believed to have magical powers, and dogs were often seen as the attendants of Odin, the Norse god of storms.
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Literary Origins: Another theory traces the phrase back to literature. The earliest known use is in Jonathan Swift’s “Complete Collection of Genteel and Ingenious Conversation” in 1738. Swift was known for his satire, and this could have been an amusing way of describing heavy rain.
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Living Conditions in 17th Century England: A more gruesome theory suggests that during heavy rainstorms in 17th Century England, the narrow, unsanitary streets would often become flooded. Stray cats and dogs, who made their homes in the roofs of houses, could be washed out, giving the appearance of raining cats and dogs.
Why Cats and Dogs?
The choice of ‘cats and dogs’ might seem arbitrary, but there are plausible explanations for this as well. In various cultures, these animals have been associated with the weather and the supernatural. In Norse mythology, cats were believed to influence the weather, while dogs were attendants of Odin, the god of storms. On the other hand, witches, who were believed to control the weather, often had cats as their familiars.
Usage Over Time
While the phrase is still widely recognized, it’s not as commonly used as it once was. According to Google Ngram Viewer, the phrase’s popularity peaked around the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s still used today, but you’re more likely to hear it from an older generation or in certain regional dialects.
Modern Usage
These days, “it’s raining cats and dogs” is more of a linguistic curiosity than a commonly used phrase. However, it’s still recognized and understood in most English-speaking parts of the world, and is often used in teaching idioms to language learners. If you come across this phrase in books or hear it in conversation, you’ll now know that it has nothing to do with airborne pets, but everything to do with a heavy downpour!
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FAQ
1. What does “it’s raining cats and dogs” mean?
The phrase “it’s raining cats and dogs” is an idiom used to describe a particularly heavy rainstorm.
2. When was the phrase “it’s raining cats and dogs” first used?
The first recorded use of the phrase dates back to the 17th century.
3. Why are ‘cats’ and ‘dogs’ used in the phrase?
Cats and dogs have been associated with weather and the supernatural in various cultures, which might explain their selection in this phrase.
4. Is the phrase “it’s raining cats and dogs” still commonly used today?
While the phrase is still recognized and understood, its usage has declined over time. It’s more likely to be used by older generations or in certain regional dialects.
5. What are some other phrases used to describe heavy rain?
Other idiomatic expressions for heavy rain include “it’s pouring,” “it’s bucketing down,” and “it’s teeming with rain.”
