catspaw

[kat-spaw]

catspaw Definition

• 1. a person used by another as a tool; a dupe
• 2. a light breeze that ruffles the surface of water
• 3. a pattern of small waves caused by such a breeze

Using catspaw: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "catspaw" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He was just a catspaw in their scheme to take over the company.

• Example

  The catspaw on the lake made it difficult to fish.

• Example

  The wind was only a catspaw, barely enough to fill the sails.

catspaw Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for catspaw

• pawn
• instrument
• tool
• puppet
• stooge

Phrases with catspaw

• make someone a catspaw

  to use someone as a tool or pawn for one's own purposes

  Example

  He made her a catspaw in his plan to get revenge on his ex.

• catch a catspaw

  to take advantage of a light breeze to move a sailboat

  Example

  We caught a catspaw and were able to sail smoothly for a while.

• use someone as a catspaw

  to manipulate someone into doing something for one's own benefit

  Example

  He used his assistant as a catspaw to carry out his unethical business practices.

Origins of catspaw

from the fable of the monkey who used a cat's paw to draw chestnuts from the fire

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Summary: catspaw in Brief

The term 'catspaw' [kat-spaw] refers to a person who is used by another as a tool or pawn. It can also refer to a light breeze that ruffles the surface of water, causing a pattern of small waves. Phrases like 'make someone a catspaw' and 'use someone as a catspaw' denote manipulation, while 'catch a catspaw' refers to taking advantage of a light breeze to move a sailboat.