Tabbykin is a rarely used word that is spelled with two syllables; Tab and Bykin. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈtæbi.kɪn/. The first syllable "Tab" is pronounced as "tæb" with the short "a" sound, while the second syllable "Bykin" is pronounced as "bɪkɪn". The word is derived from the term "tabby," which refers to a type of striped or brindled domestic cat. Adding the diminutive suffix "-kin" to "tabby" creates the word "tabbykin," meaning a small or young tabby cat.
Tabbykin is a noun and a neologism, referring to an individual who identifies as a hybrid being or entity, often blending characteristics of both a human and a feline creature. The term "tabbykin" is derived from the word "tabby," which traditionally denotes a domestic cat with a striped or mottled coat pattern. However, in this context, "tabbykin" represents a broader concept of self-identification beyond mere physical appearance.
A tabbykin identifies on a personal and emotional level with the qualities and behaviors commonly associated with felines. This may include a strong affinity for cats and their behaviors, an instinctual connection to their surroundings, or a deep emotional resonance with the feline aspect of their identity. It is important to note that tabbykin is primarily seen in internet subcultures and communities where individuals explore and express their unique identities outside of societal norms.
Tabbykin can encompass different forms of expression, ranging from aesthetic choices, such as incorporating feline-inspired elements into their appearance or lifestyle, to more spiritual or psychological identification with feline qualities. As with other non-traditional identities, tabbykin should be understood as a personal and individual experience, with each person's interpretation and understanding of their own tabbykin identity varying to some extent.
In conclusion, tabbykin denotes an individual who identifies, on some level, with feline qualities and aspects of their identity, incorporating these into their sense of self and way of being.
The word "tabbykin" appears to be a relatively new term coined in modern times, specifically within the online community associated with the concept of Otherkin. Otherkin refers to individuals who identify as non-human or partially non-human in a spiritual or psychological sense.
The etymology of "tabbykin" can be broken down as follows:
1. Tabby: This word originates from the Arabic word "attabiya", which referred to a type of silk taffeta or striped silk. The term was later adopted into medieval French as "tabis" and then into English as "tabby" in the 17th century. It initially described a type of striped or watered silk fabric. Over time, "tabby" also came to refer to the characteristic striped or brindled fur of certain cats, especially female cats.