Cat got your tongue?

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Meaning

A playful way to ask why someone is silent or not responding, implying they're unable to speak.

Origin

Possibly from old English punishments where liars had their tongues fed to cats, or from the intimidating silence caused by the Egyptian cat goddess Bastet's presence.

Usage Examples

  • Why so quiet? Cat got your tongue?
  • She just stared at me; cat got her tongue, I guess.
  • He didn't answer the teacher; maybe the cat got his tongue.

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