The full proverb reads, “Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back.” Curiosity did not kill the cat after all. The Old French roots of the word “satisfaction” mean religious contrition whereas the modern English definition means fulfillment.
Is there a story behind curiosity killed the cat?
No one knows definitively where the term “curiosity killed the cat” originated. The first reference comes from a comedic play. In 1598, English playwright Ben Johnson used the term “care’ll kill a cat” in Every Man in his Humour. The word “care” in Johnson’s time would be defined as “nosiness” today.
What is the story behind Curiosity killed the cat?
No one knows definitively where the term “curiosity killed the cat” originated. The first reference comes from a comedic play. In 1598, English playwright Ben Johnson used the term “care’ll kill a cat” in Every Man in his Humour. The word “care” in Johnson’s time would be defined as “nosiness” today.
What is a real life example of Curiosity killed the cat?
Means: being too curious may bring about problems for you. Example of use: “Hey, I wonder what’s down that street; it looks awfully dark and creepy.” Answer: “Let’s not try to find out. Curiosity killed the cat.”
