rat

[ræt]

rat Definition

  • 1a small, long-tailed rodent that is often considered a pest
  • 2a person who is dishonest or disloyal

Using rat: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "rat" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I saw a rat in the kitchen last night.

  • Example

    He's a rat who betrayed his friends to the police.

  • Example

    The company was infested with rats who leaked confidential information to competitors.

rat Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for rat

Phrases with rat

  • to suspect that something is wrong or dishonest

    Example

    I smell a rat. This deal seems too good to be true.

  • a way of life in which people are caught up in a fiercely competitive struggle for wealth or power

    Example

    I'm tired of the rat race. I want to quit my job and travel the world.

  • to inform on someone, especially to the authorities

    Example

    He ratted out his accomplices to get a lighter sentence.

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Summary: rat in Brief

The term 'rat' [ræt] refers to a small, long-tailed rodent that is often considered a pest. It can also mean a person who is dishonest or disloyal, exemplified by 'He's a rat who betrayed his friends to the police.' 'Rat' extends into phrases like 'smell a rat,' and 'rat race,' denoting suspicion and a fiercely competitive struggle, respectively.

How do native speakers use this expression?