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From Cats to Terms of Endearment: In the 16th century, the word "puss" (and later "pussy") was primarily used as a name for a cat or a call to attract one. By the 17th century, it became a common, non-sexual nickname or term of endearment for girls and women.
Association with Softness: Over time, the word became associated with concepts of warmth, softness, and furriness. This led to the gradual transition of the endearment shifting from the whole woman to her genitals.
Roots in "Purse" or "Pouch": Some linguists, including editors for the Webster's Dictionary, believe it may be related to the Old Norse word puss or Old English pusa, which meant "bag," "pocket," or "purse".
Similar German and Dutch words (like poes) historically had overlapping meanings for both "cat" and "vulva".
Popularization: The slang was established in writing by the late 19th century and was popularized further in erotic literature and later mainstream pop culture. |
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