pussyfoot

Pussyfoot is a verb meaning to move, walk, or act in a very cautious, stealthy manner, often to avoid attention or to avoid making a decision. The phrase pussyfoot around or pussy-foot around denotes avoiding directness, delaying action, or being evasive about a subject. It is typically used informally in both American and British English.

Origins of the term are uncertain, but it is commonly linked to the image of a cat moving quietly and carefully. The word can appear in hyphenated form as pussy-foot or unhyphenated as pussyfoot, with the present participle pussyfooting.

Usage notes: The term is informal and often carries a playful or disapproving tone. It can imply that a person is avoiding responsibility or failing to address a problem directly. While not inherently vulgar, some may consider it crude or colloquial in formal writing. Related expressions include tiptoeing around a topic, walking on eggshells, and being overly cautious.