pussyfoot

[ˈpʊsiˌfʊt]

pussyfoot Definition

• 1. to walk or behave in a cautious or timid manner, especially in order to avoid attracting attention
• 2. to act in a way that is not direct or honest

Using pussyfoot: Examples

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

• Example

  He pussyfooted around the issue instead of addressing it directly.

• Example

  She pussyfooted through the room, trying not to wake the baby.

• Example

  Don't pussyfoot around the problem, just tell me what's going on.

pussyfoot Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for pussyfoot

• tiptoe
• creep
• sneak
• skulk
• slip

Antonyms for pussyfoot

• march
• stomp
• strut

Phrases with pussyfoot

• pussyfoot around

  to avoid talking about or dealing with something directly

  Example

  Stop pussyfooting around and tell me what you really think.

• pussyfoot with

  to treat someone or something in a very gentle way, especially when this is not necessary or appropriate

  Example

  Don't pussyfoot with him, he needs to learn how to handle criticism.

• pussyfoot into

  to enter or become involved in something gradually or cautiously

  Example

  She pussyfooted into the world of politics, starting with local elections.

Origins of pussyfoot

from 'pussy' meaning 'cat' and 'foot', meaning 'to walk'

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Summary: pussyfoot in Brief

The verb 'pussyfoot' [ˈpʊsiˌfʊt] means to walk or behave in a cautious or timid manner, often to avoid attracting attention or to act in a way that is not direct or honest. It can be used in phrases like 'pussyfoot around' to mean avoiding talking about something directly, or 'pussyfoot with' to mean treating someone or something too gently. Synonyms include 'tiptoe,' 'creep,' and 'sneak.'