catfoot

1 of 3

noun (1)

plural -s

: a biennial cudweed (Gnaphalium obtusifolium) with linear lanceolate leaves that are decurrent as wings down the stem

cat foot

2 of 3

noun (2)

: a short round compact foot like a cat's

a hound with a good cat foot

—A. J. Liebling

cat-foot

3 of 3

intransitive verb

: to move in a manner suggesting a cat (as stealthily or silently)

the butler came cat-footing back along the hall

—Raymond Chandler

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

probably so called from the shape of the leaves

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now