Cat's-paw

Cat's-paw

A cat's-paw is a term that can refer to several different concepts, including a type of knot, a weather phenomenon, and a metaphorical expression.

Knot

The cat's-paw knot is a type of hitch knot used to connect a rope to an object. It is particularly useful for attaching a rope to a hook or a similar object. The knot is formed by creating two loops in the rope and then twisting them together. This knot is known for its strength and reliability.

Weather Phenomenon

In meteorology, a cat's-paw refers to a light breeze that ruffles the surface of the water, creating small, visible ripples. This phenomenon is often seen on calm days when a gentle wind disturbs the water's surface. The term is derived from the appearance of the ripples, which resemble the paw prints of a cat.

Metaphorical Expression

The term cat's-paw is also used metaphorically to describe a person who is used by another to accomplish their own purposes. This usage originates from the fable "The Monkey and the Cat," in which a monkey uses a cat's paw to pull chestnuts out of a fire, thereby avoiding getting burned himself. In this context, a cat's-paw is someone who is manipulated or exploited by another.

Related Pages

• Hitch knot
• Meteorology
• Fable
• Manipulation