Cat Burglar Meaning: Definition, Examples & 25+ Cat Idioms

Cat burglar is a well-known English idiom used to describe a highly skilled thief who breaks into buildings by climbing walls, rooftops, or upper-floor windows.

The term emphasizes stealth, silence, and agility — much like the movements of a cat — and is commonly used in crime stories, news reports, and everyday English.

Cat Burglar

Meaning of “Cat Burglar”

A cat burglar is a skillful thief who breaks into houses or other buildings by climbing up walls and entering through upper windows, skylights, or the roof. The key idea is stealth and agility—moving quietly and smoothly like a cat.

This term became popular in the early 20th century to describe burglars known for their climbing skills and silent break-ins.

For example:

Auguste flashed around busily, trying to reconcile these people with Rose’s cat burglar.
Although he was to become Britain’s most successful cat burglar, Peace showed no early aptitude and was frequently arrested.
The inspector was surprised by the exploits of a cat burglar who only stole from upper floors and attics.
Michael had his smartphone taken from his room on the second floor. Police suspect it was a cat burglar.

Cat Burglar Synonyms

These words are the closest in meaning because they relate to breaking into buildings (not street crime or theft in crowds):

Word	How It’s Different
Burglar	A general term for anyone who breaks into a building to steal.
Housebreaker	Someone who breaks into houses (not necessarily by climbing like a cat burglar).
Intruder	Someone who enters a place without permission; not always to steal.
Prowler	Someone who moves around quietly near a property with bad intentions.
Thief	A general word for someone who steals; does not specify breaking in.
Robber	Usually involves force or threats; different from a quiet break-in.
Bandit	A criminal (often in groups) who steals by force; not specific to burglary.
Crook	Informal word for a criminal in general; not specific to burglary.

English Idioms with “Cat”

Personality & Behavior

Cool cat: Used to describe somebody who had style and was cool.
Scaredy cat: People are easily frightened.
Copy cat: Used to deride each other for doing the same as someone else.
The cat that got the cream: Someone looks very pleased with themselves because they achieved something that they’re proud of.
Fat cat: A wealthy and successful person.

Secrets, Surprise, and Trouble

Cat got your tongue?: Someone is being unusually quiet and asking them about it.
Let the cat out of the bag: Reveal a secret, often with unpleasant consequences.
Put the cat among the pigeons: Do or say something that will make a lot of people angry or worried.
Play cat and mouse: Toy with or amuse oneself with something.

Feelings, Stress, and Anxiety

Have kittens: Extreme fear and stress.
Like a cat on a hot tin roof: Someone who is so anxious that they can’t keep still.
Grinning like a Cheshire cat: A person has a large, somewhat foolish, smile on his face.

Everyday Situations and Sayings

Cat nap: A short sleep.
Raining cats and dogs: Raining heavily.
When the cat’s away, the mice will play: Subordinates will be more relaxed when the person of authority is absent.
More than one way to skin a cat: There is more than one way to achieve something.
Not enough room to swing a cat: Cramped or crowded spaces.
Curiosity killed the cat: Used to tell someone to keep their nose out of things that don’t concern them.
A cat may look at a king: A person of low social standing still has rights.
Cat’s cradle: Describe something that’s overly complicated.
Like a scalded cat: Very quickly.
She’s the cat’s mother: Often used to rebuke someone.
Cat’s pyjamas: A person who is the best at what he/she does.
Cat’s Meow: Something outstanding or excellent.
All cats are grey at night: In the dark, physical attributes are unimportant.
As conceited as a barber’s cat: Someone who has a high opinion of themselves or their importance.

Some Examples of Common Idioms with “Cat”

He accidentally let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party.
You’ve been silent all evening — cat got your tongue?
She was like a cat on a hot tin roof while waiting for the interview results.
The company is run by a few fat cats who earn millions each year.
He walked into the room smiling like the cat that got the cream.

Last Updated on January 30, 2026

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Nhat Nhat

English Teacher | IELTS Instructor | English Learning Content Creator at ESLTeacher.org

Nhat Nhat is an English teacher and IELTS instructor specializing in grammar, academic writing, and English learning resources. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Education from Hanoi National University of Education (HNUE), an IELTS 8.0 certificate, and TESOL / TEFL teaching certifications. With over 9 years of teaching experience, he creates practical lessons and educational content to help learners improve their English skills and exam performance.