Definition & Meaning of "cat got your tongue"

What is the origin of the idiom "cat got your tongue" and when to use it?

The idiom "cat got your tongue" is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century and may be related to the idea that a cat's tongue is rough, which could symbolize difficulty in speaking or reluctance to do so. It is used to describe a situation where someone is unusually silent or unable to speak, often when they are expected to respond or provide an answer.