1. Misinterpretation of Old English:
* This theory suggests the expression might have originated from the Old English phrase "regn catte" meaning "cat rain" or "rain of cats".
* This could have referred to the heavy, torrential rain that would wash cats and other small animals into the streets.
2. "Cat" as a slang for "water spout":
* In the past, "cat" was sometimes used as slang for "water spout" (a funnel-shaped column of water descending from a cloud).
* So "raining cats and dogs" could have described a fierce storm with heavy rain and powerful water spouts.
3. Symbolic Representation:
* Some believe the expression arose from folklore or mythology. Cats and dogs were traditionally associated with witchcraft and storms.
* Therefore, "raining cats and dogs" might have been a way to describe a storm as powerful enough to bring down supernatural creatures.
4. Misheard Phrase:
* Another possibility is that the expression originated from a misheard phrase. "Raining cats and dogs" could have been a misinterpretation of "raining cats and hogs" which was used to describe the heavy downpours that would wash pigs and other animals into rivers.
Ultimately, the true origin of "raining cats and dogs" remains uncertain. However, all these theories point to a common theme: the expression signifies an intense downpour that seems almost impossible to survive, similar to being bombarded by animals.