KITTY CORNER Meaning and
Definition
-
Kitty corner, also spelled as "catty-corner" or "catercorner," is an idiomatic term used to describe a diagonal position or direction in relation to something else. Originating in North America, this expression primarily refers to a location, object, or placement that is situated at a diagonal angle across or opposite from another. The term is commonly employed to describe the position of two objects or structures situated diagonally across from one another without directly facing each other.
The concept of "kitty corner" is derived from the term "catercorner," which is believed to have been derived from the French word "quatre" meaning "four." This could be in reference to the four corners or quadrants that can be formed by intersecting lines. The diagonal placement often creates a triangular area or space between the objects that are kitty corner to each other.
For instance, when referring to two buildings, one could be described as being kitty corner to the other if they are located diagonally across from each other, on opposite corners of an intersection. Similarly, when referencing a table placed diagonally across a room, it can be said to be kitty corner to the entryway.
Overall, kitty corner denotes a slanted or diagonal position in relation to another object, emphasizing a diagonal orientation rather than a straight, perpendicular, or parallel alignment.
Common Misspellings for KITTY CORNER
- kittycoarner
- kittycorener
Etymology of KITTY CORNER
The etymology of the phrase "kitty corner" comes from the word "cater-cornered", which was initially used in the late 19th century. "Cater-cornered" is a variation of the word "cater" (derived from the Latin word "quattuor", meaning "four") and "cornered" (suggesting diagonally opposite corners). It was used to describe something or someone positioned diagonally across from a point of reference. Over time, "cater-cornered" transformed into "kitty corner", likely due to a modification of "cater" to "kitty" through similarity of sound, and it became the more popular form in certain regions. The term "kitty corner" is primarily used in North American English, particularly in the Midwest and Western United States.
Similar spelling words for KITTY CORNER
- kitty-cornered,
- tycoon,
- kitty-corner.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
