Meaning & Definition of word "Rat"

Rat

/ræt/

1. A rodent of the family Muridae, typically characterized by a long tail, elongated body, and pointed snout.
- Example: The rat scurried across the alley in search of food.
2. A person who betrays or informs on others, often used as a term of contempt.
- Example: He was called a rat for revealing his friend's secret.
3. A person who is considered untrustworthy or despicable.
- Example: Everyone in the office began to see him as a rat after he disclosed confidential information.

1. To betray someone or inform on someone.
- Example: She decided to rat on her accomplices to avoid a harsher punishment.
2. To cheat or swindle.
- Example: He felt that the dealer had tried to rat him out of his money.

●Middle English rat, from Old English ræt, from Proto-Germanic *rattō.

rat race:

A fierce competition for limited resources or rewards.

rat out:

To inform on someone, especially to authorities.

smarter than the average rat:

More intelligent than what is typically expected.

mouse:

A small rodent similar to a rat but typically smaller.

rodent:

A group of mammals that includes rats, mice, squirrels, and others.

pest:

An annoying or harmful insect or animal.

Meaning: A person who betrays friends or associates.

● Example Sentence: After he testified against his crew, everyone called him a rat.

Meaning: To inform on someone.

● Example Sentence: He decided to rat on his partner to get a plea deal.