Pronunciation: [kˈatkɔːlə] (IPA) 
The word "catcaller" is spelled with a "t" after the "c" because it follows the rule that when "c" comes before an "a", "o", or "u", it is pronounced with a hard "k" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription for "catcaller" is /ˈkætkɔlər/, with the stress on the first syllable. This word refers to someone who makes unwanted and often sexual comments towards women on the street, and is not a behavior that should be accepted or tolerated.
A catcaller is an individual who indulges in a form of street harassment characterized by offensive, often sexually suggestive remarks or gestures directed at someone, usually of the opposite gender, walking in a public space. The term "catcaller" is primarily associated with men, as they are the more common perpetrators of this behavior.
Catcalling is typically unsolicited and unwelcome, aimed at objectifying and demeaning the target. It often involves shouting, hissing, whistling, or making lewd comments about the person's appearance, clothing, or body. Catcallers may use their actions to assert power or dominance over the person they are harassing.
The term is derived from the phrase "a catcalling whistle," which resembles the sound made when calling a cat. It implies that the behavior is animalistic, crude, and lacking in respect for others' boundaries and dignity.
Catcalling has increasingly been recognized as a form of sexual harassment and gender-based violence, representing a violation of human rights. It contributes to a hostile and unsafe environment, causing anxiety, fear, and distress for the targets. Many individuals and organizations advocate for the eradication of catcalling, promoting consent, respect, and equal treatment for everyone in public spaces.
It is important to note that the act of catcalling is unacceptable and perpetuates harmful gender dynamics. The term "catcaller" serves to identify and denounce individuals engaging in this inappropriate behavior.
The word "catcaller" is derived from the noun "catcall". The etymology of "catcall" can be traced back to the early 18th century. It is believed to originate from the words "cat" and "call", with "cat" referring to a contemptuous term for a woman and "call" representing the act of shouting or whistling. The term was initially used to describe a particular type of whistle or noise made to express disapproval or ridicule. Over time, "catcall" expanded in meaning to include unsolicited comments or sexually suggestive remarks made by men towards women in public spaces. Consequently, "catcaller" came into use as a noun to describe a person who engages in such behavior.
