The word "tomcat" refers to a male cat, particularly one that is not neutered and is often known for roaming and mating with female cats. Tomcats are typically associated with certain behaviors, such as marking territory and being more aggressive than female cats.
The term "tomcat" originated in the early 17th century, deriving from "Tom," a common name for male cats. The use of "Tom" in this context became popularized due to the character Tom in the book "The Life and Adventures of a Tom Cat" published in 1760.