As correctly stated, this is a literal phrase dating from 17th century England. Back in the day, peasants used what little land they owned for crops and such, so could not afford to keep cats and dogs on their land. As a result, people used to keep their animals on the thatched roofs of their cottages. When it rained heavily, the thatching became very perilous and slippery, causing the cats and dogs to fall off!
by NickR June 9, 2005
We say it's raining cats and dogs when there is a heavy downpour. It simply means a heavy rain.
The saying presents an interesting image of animals falling from the sky, that doesn't seem to have much to do with torrential rain, and experts aren't certain about its origin.
The most likely and least appealing theory is that rain storms in 17th century England would carry the bodies of dead animals through the dirty city streets inspiring people to say "it's raining cats and dogs"
The saying presents an interesting image of animals falling from the sky, that doesn't seem to have much to do with torrential rain, and experts aren't certain about its origin.
The most likely and least appealing theory is that rain storms in 17th century England would carry the bodies of dead animals through the dirty city streets inspiring people to say "it's raining cats and dogs"
Example: -Sorry I'm late for work it's raining cats and dogs and the streets are flooded.
-when it rains cats and dogs, you tend to get very wet.
-when it rains cats and dogs, you tend to get very wet.
by NB1906 August 29, 2022
A full back stretch; you must bend over like you are taking it in the butt and go back and forth until it feels better (may take a while)
Megan's back really hurt after her workout so she did the cat and dog stretch and it suddenly felt amazing as if she got it in the butt.
by Kramden123 March 27, 2015
by zobna pasta December 17, 2016
by LaWSiR August 18, 2006
A sexual act between a man and a women. Also can be man on man. It is similar to scissoring, except it is more majestic and beastly!
Best performed on a long couch.
Best performed on a long couch.
by haleme July 9, 2016
by Bloody smegpot April 9, 2014