Meanings
Formed of herd + cat, perhaps in reference to domesticated cats’ solitary nature. Possibly from the opening scene of Monty Python's Life of Brian (1979). Shepherds are discussing sheep and the topic strays to cats: "Can you imagine a herds of cats waiting to be sheared? Meow! Meow! Woo hoo hoo."[1] Earliest usage unknown, but the idiom is attested from the 1980s.
How to pronounce "herd cats":
AU
To attempt to control the uncontrollable.
Example: "Managing volunteers from fourteen different organizations is like herding cats."
Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see herd, cat.
Example Sentences
1
Trying to organize a group of young children is like trying to herd cats.
2
Managing a team of strong-willed individuals is often described as trying to herd cats.
3
In a chaotic situation, it feels like trying to herd cats to get everyone to focus.
4
During a crisis, it becomes challenging to herd cats and make everyone act in unison.
5
When leading a disorganized project, it feels like trying to herd cats to make progress.
