CATERCORNER Meaning and
Definition
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Catercorner, also spelled catty-corner or kitty-corner, is an adjective and adverb used in American English to describe a diagonal or diagonal position in relation to something else. The term is derived from the words "cater," meaning oblique or rolling, and "corner," indicating an angle or intersection.
When used to describe a physical location or arrangement, catercorner refers to two objects, buildings, or street corners that are situated diagonally across from each other. For instance, if two houses are positioned diagonally across an intersection, it can be said that they are catercorner to each other. Similarly, if an item is placed diagonally across a tabletop, it is considered to be catercorner.
The term can also be used to indicate a diagonal direction or movement. For example, if someone is instructed to move catercorner across a room, they would have to walk diagonally instead of proceeding straight or along the edges. Additionally, the word can describe a path that deviates from the usual or expected route, taking a diagonal or oblique direction.
Overall, "catercorner" is a versatile term used to describe diagonal positions, arrangements, directions, or movements. Its usage is prevalent in American English, particularly in informal conversations and regional dialects.
Common Misspellings for CATERCORNER
Etymology of CATERCORNER
The word "catercorner" (also spelled "catercornered" or "catty-cornered") is believed to have originated from the combination of two words: "cater" and "corner".
The word "cater" comes from the Middle English word "catour", derived from the Anglo-French word "acatour" meaning "buyer", which is ultimately derived from the Latin word "cattus" meaning "cat". In medieval times, a "cater" referred to a buyer or a provider of provisions.
The term "corner" comes from the Old French word "corniere", which evolved from "corn", meaning "horn" in Latin. It originally referred to the angle formed by two converging lines or edges.
The fusion of "cater" and "corner" occurred in the 19th century in American English.
Similar spelling word for CATERCORNER
