Tabby
/ˈtæbi/noun
A type of domestic cat with a distinctive coat pattern featuring stripes, swirls, or spots.
Did you know?The term 'tabby' derives from a type of silk that was associated with the mysterious and magical qualities of its patterned appearance, often linked to the occult in medieval Europe.
Etymological Timeline
Arabic
Arabic
طَابِي
“a term for a rich, patterned silk fabric.”
12th Century
Old French
tabis
“a fabric of silk, often with a rippled texture.”
14th Century
English
taby
“a type of cloth made from silk, distinguished by its striped pattern.”
17th Century
English
tabby
“a term used for a cat with a mottled coat, referencing the fabric's patterns.”
Modern English
English
tabby
“a domestic cat characterized by its unique coat markings.”