Meaning & Definition of word "Rat"
Rat
/ræt/
noun:
- 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.
verb:
- 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.
Etymology
●Middle English rat, from Old English ræt, from Proto-Germanic *rattō.
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
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.
Slang Meanings of rat
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.