Cat Calling

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Cat Calling

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This slang term may be vulgar, gross, or otherwise not safe for work (or kids). Scroll down at your own peril.

Other definitions of Cat Calling:

Crude gestures, whistles, or other sounds used to gain attention and objectify someone sexually.
Behavior commonly perceived as harassment, typically aimed at women or marginalized groups.

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How to use the term
Cat Calling:

Maria stormed into the café fuming, 'Can I go one block without some creep cat calling me?' she asked rhetorically, ordering three espressos to calm down.
'Nice legs!' yelled the man on the park bench, clearly unaware that his attempts at cat calling were as welcome as Monday mornings.
Josh smugly asked if women enjoy cat calling, immediately earning disgusted glares from everyone at the dinner party.

The Notorious Tale of Cat Calling: Crude Commentary Meets Public Scorn

Ah, cat calling—the ghastly practice of uttering unsolicited commentary, whistles, or lewd gestures in a public setting, normally aimed toward unsuspecting individuals who are just trying to go about their day without unsolicited commentary from random sidewalk ne'er-do-wells. Typically, this term targets comments directed toward women, though anyone can unfortunately find themselves on the receiving end of such tasteless displays.

Origins: A Grim and Whistled Past

This detestable phrase originated from the mid-20th century streets, where individuals (mostly of the testosterone-infused persuasion) would mimic cat-like noises, whistles, or coarse remarks to catch the attention of another. This behavior has sorrowfully evolved from a misguided attempt at flattery into the current recognition: a universally scorned display of disrespect and harassment.

Evolution and Cultural Shifts

Over decades, cat calling migrated from being mistakenly excused as harmless teasing into its contemporary, widely-recognized form—finally understood for what it truly is: unwanted and aggressive harassment. The change in public perception has been fueled by feminist movements, social media influence, and indeed, common decency. Times have changed, and now, what was once shrugged off as 'boys being boys' is aptly seen as sheer societal disgrace.

Who Partakes in This Ghastly Parade?

Usually, cat calling is perpetuated by groups or singular individuals emboldened by anonymity, distance, or the misguided approval of like-minded peers. While traditionally perpetrated by men toward women, any gender can, horrifically enough, find themselves on either side of these social atrocities. Cat callers are most often men ranging from adolescents eager to flaunt misguided bravado to adults clearly ill-versed in human decency.

Variations and Alternates

'Street Harassment': This umbrella term neatly captures cat calling alongside other unsolicited and unwanted public attention.
'Wolf Whistling': An older variation defined by a sharp, usually two-note whistle.
'Drive-by Heckling': Obnoxious comments shouted from moving vehicles, typically followed by shameful, cowardly laughter and sped-up departures.

Controversies: When 'Compliments' Aren't Compliments

Amusingly to some, disturbingly to most, debates rage on about whether cat calling can ever be considered flattering. Spoiler alert: nearly universal consensus amongst civilized society has determined it cannot. However, some misguided perspectives insist upon its value as a flawed but 'natural' attempt at flirtation. Commercials and public service announcements aim to eradicate such perspectives, reinforcing cat calling as harassment rather than charm.

Cultural Significance and Social Commentary

In this era, cat calling symbolizes lingering gender inequalities and public accountability challenges. Women and marginalized individuals openly discuss their experiences on platforms like social media to thereby highlight societal need for collective change. Campaigns such as #StopStreetHarassment and actual legislation in cities worldwide aim to diminish the frequency and acceptability of such behaviors.

Conclusion: Bye Bye, Bygone 'Flattery'

Ultimately, cat calling now stands as an awkward, crude fossil from misguided past societal attitudes, increasingly unaccepted and demonized—rightfully—as insulting harassment. One can hope for its decline, ensuring our collective progression toward decency and respect. Take note, dear readers: if someone's walking down the street, hold your tongue and spare them your unsolicited 'commentary' unless you're complimenting their delightful fashion choices in a respectful, civilized manner.