The Evolution of 'Pussy': From Affectionate Term to Vulgarism

How did the word 'pussy', which people use to refer to domestic cats, become such a vulgarism? This article explores the fascinating journey of the word 'pussy', from its origins in Old Norse to its current place in modern language and culture.

Original Meaning

Let's start with the word's original meaning. The term 'pussy' comes from the Old Norse word 'pússi', which means 'pocket' or 'pouch'. Interestingly, this term was also used to describe a cat. The affectionate use of 'pussy' to refer to cats likely stemmed from their small, cuddly appearance and the way they might curl up in a soft, snuggly position.

Affectionate Usage

In the 17th century, 'pussy' began to appear in literature and poetry, often used to describe cats in an endearing way. Writers and poets used the term to highlight the playful and gentle nature of domestic cats, further cementing its place as a term of endearment. For instance, in literature, 'pussy' was used to evoke the soft, furry, and affectionate nature of cats. Here’s a sample quote from a poem: 'The fluffy pussy, so soft and white, purring in my lap all night.'

Shift to Vulgarism

As language often does, 'pussy' began to acquire a second, more vulgar, meaning over time. By the 19th century, the term started to be used as slang for female genitalia, thus acquiring its vulgar connotation. This shift was likely influenced by the delicate, soft associations that were seen in both cats and female anatomy, leading to the transition from an affectionate term to one with a more controversial meaning.

Cultural Context

The fully-fledged vulgar usage of 'pussy' became prominent in the 20th century, particularly in popular culture and media. This shift reflects broader changes in language, culture, and societal attitudes towards sexuality and femininity. The cultural context plays a significant role in how words evolve. In much the same way, the transition of 'cock', 'bitch', and 'ass' from acceptable terms to vulgarisms paralleled the increasing taboos associated with sexual content during the Victorian era.

During the Victorian era, there was a horror of anything even remotely connected to sex, making such words taboo. Many words, including 'pussy', had secondary vulgar or profane connotations that were previously accepted in society. It wasn't until the 19th century that these words became more explicitly forbidden.

Vulgar Short Forms

A simpler answer is that 'pussy' is often used as a vulgar expression, particularly in conversational language. Another vulgar expression often linked to it is 'twat', which rhymes with 'pussy'. Over time, this term has been shortened to 'pussy', further cementing its place in vulgar vocabulary.

In conclusion, while 'pussy' originally referred to cats in an affectionate manner, its transformation into a vulgarism reflects broader changes in language, culture, and societal attitudes over time. Understanding this evolution can provide valuable insights into the meanings and connotations behind words and expressions in our modern language.