Raining cats and dogs

Why Do We Say "It's Raining Cats and Dogs"?

Have you ever heard someone say, "It's raining cats and dogs"? It’s a funny expression that means it’s raining very heavily. But have you ever wondered where it came from? Let’s explore!

Theories Behind the Phrase

1. Medieval Times Myth:
   Some people believe the phrase comes from old England, where heavy rain could wash stray animals into the streets, making it look like cats and dogs were falling from the sky!

2. Norse Mythology:
   In Norse mythology, dogs were associated with storms, and cats were believed to bring wind. The combination might symbolize a wild, stormy weather.

3. The Language Evolution Theory:
   Some linguists think it came from a misinterpretation of an old phrase. In 17th-century England, there was a saying, "It rains cats and dogs and pitchforks", which just meant really heavy rain. Over time, only "cats and dogs" stuck around.

How to Use It Today

Even though it’s an old expression, people still use it in everyday English. For example:

• “I forgot my umbrella, and now it’s raining cats and dogs!”

• “The weather forecast said it’ll rain cats and dogs this weekend, so let’s stay indoors.”

Other Funny Weather Idioms

If you like this one, here are more weather-related idioms you can use:

• "Come rain or shine": No matter what happens.
  (We’ll have the picnic come rain or shine!)

• "A storm in a teacup": Making a big deal out of something small.
  (Don’t worry about it—it’s just a storm in a teacup.)

• "Under the weather": Feeling sick.
  (I can’t come to work today; I’m feeling a bit under the weather.)