tom

tom · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A male cat, especially an unneutered one.

  2. 2.

    Short form of the name Thomas.

  3. 3.

    A male turkey.

  4. 4.

    A tom-tom drum.

Forms

plural: toms

Related words

Antonyms: queen (female cat)
See also: Thomas, cat, tomcat
Synonyms: male cat, tomcat

Etymology

From the male personal name "Tom," a diminutive of "Thomas," which became used to denote a male animal, especially a cat. The use for male cats became standard in the 18th century, possibly influenced by the popular 1760 book "The Life and Adventures of a Cat."