NINE LIVES Meaning and
Definition
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Nine lives is an idiomatic expression that originated from the belief that cats possess extraordinary longevity and are capable of surviving dangerous or seemingly impossible situations. The phrase refers to the idea that cats have the ability to cheat death multiple times, as if they possess nine separate lives. It is often used metaphorically to describe someone who has escaped death or disaster repeatedly, exhibiting a remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.
In a literal sense, "nine lives" can be associated with the survival instinct and agility typically observed in cats. It suggests that cats are capable of landing on their feet, even when faced with dangerous falls or accidents. This ability, combined with a presumed ability to evade danger, reinforces the notion that cats can transcend the boundaries of mortality.
Figuratively, the phrase "nine lives" is used to describe individuals who consistently manage to overcome obstacles, setbacks, or life-threatening circumstances. It implies that these individuals possess an innate resilience, luck, or divine protection. The concept of "nine lives" can also be applied to situations, suggesting that a person or thing has been given multiple chances or opportunities to overcome challenges or succeed in life.
Overall, "nine lives" carries the notion of defying the odds, surpassing expectations, and displaying an extraordinary ability to recover from seemingly insurmountable circumstances.
Common Misspellings for NINE LIVES
- bine lives
- mine lives
- jine lives
- hine lives
- nune lives
- njne lives
- nkne lives
- none lives
- n9ne lives
- n8ne lives
- nibe lives
- nime lives
- nije lives
- nihe lives
- ninw lives
- nins lives
- nind lives
- ninr lives
- nin4 lives
- nin3 lives
Etymology of NINE LIVES
The expression "nine lives" originates from the belief that cats have multiple lives. The idea of cats having nine lives can be traced back to ancient mythologies and folklore. In ancient Egypt, cats were regarded as sacred animals and were associated with various deities. The Egyptian goddess Bastet, who was often depicted as a lioness or as a woman with the head of a lioness, was believed to possess multiple lives. As cats became commonly associated with Bastet, the concept of them being bestowed with multiple lives evolved.
The notion of cats having nine lives was further popularized through European folklore. Cats were believed to possess mystical and supernatural qualities, including the ability to cheat death or escape dangerous situations unharmed. This belief was rooted in their agility, grace, and ability to survive falls from great heights. Over time, the concept of nine lives became an idiomatic expression used to describe the resilience and survival skills of cats.
Idioms with the word NINE LIVES
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cat has nine lives
The idiom "cat has nine lives" means that cats are believed to have the ability to survive dangerous situations or accidents multiple times. It suggests that cats are resilient and can escape harm repeatedly, even when faced with life-threatening circumstances. This expression is often used figuratively to describe someone who has survived many near-death experiences or has a knack for avoiding dangerous situations.
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a cat has nine lives
The idiom "a cat has nine lives" means that cats are known for surviving dangerous or risky situations multiple times. It suggests that cats have a remarkable ability to escape harm or death, seemingly defying the odds. This phrase is often used figuratively to describe someone who has experienced several luck or narrow escapes from potentially fatal situations.
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have nine lives
The idiom "have nine lives" is used to describe someone who manages to survive or escape dangerous situations multiple times, suggesting that they possess extraordinary resilience or luck.
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nine lives
The idiom "nine lives" refers to the belief or idea that a person or animal has been lucky to survive multiple dangerous or life-threatening situations. It is often used to describe someone who has narrowly escaped death multiple times. The phrase is inspired by the idea that cats are said to have nine lives in folklore.
