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When and why was any cat first called Tiddles?

Question #58853. Asked by gmackematix.
Last updated Jul 25 2021.

gmackematix
Answer has 1 vote
gmackematix
21 year member
3194 replies

Answer has 1 vote.
On that note, I looked up the word "tiddle".
While it might look like a cross between tinkle and piddle, it means something entirely different.

From an old English word "tid" meaning weak or tender (it still appears in the word "tidbit" and is related to the word "tender") comes the verb tiddle meaning to treat with tenderness or to fondle.
That possibly explains why if not when the name Tiddles became a popular name to give cats.

Aug 17 2005, 5:20 PM
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lanfranco
Answer has 9 votes
Currently Best Answer
lanfranco
19 year member
4407 replies avatar

Answer has 9 votes.

Currently voted the best answer.
The OED confirms, gmack. The definitions are given as 1) to fondle or pamper/indulge to excess; and 2) to potter, trifle, fidget, or fuss.

Unfortunately, the entry doesn't say a thing about cats (the online edition might offer more); but I was astonished, while checking out your question, to discover how common a cat's name "Tiddles" seems to be in the U.K.

Aug 17 2005, 6:34 PM
SOTHC
Answer has 1 vote
SOTHC
21 year member
772 replies

Answer has 1 vote.
For those people who need help in naming their cats, link https://www.bowwow.com.au/cat-names has some good suggestions.


Response last updated by gtho4 on Jul 25 2021.
Aug 18 2005, 5:19 AM
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