n.
Pronunciation: ' rat
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English ræt; akin to Old High German ratta rat and perhaps to Latin rodere to gnaw ― more at RODENT
Date: before 12th century
1 a : any of numerous rodents ( Rattus and related genera) differing from the related mice especially by considerably larger size b : any of various similar rodents
2 : a contemptible person: as a : one who betrays or deserts friends or associates b : SCAB 3B c : INFORMER 2
3 : a pad over which a woman's hair is arranged
4 : a person who spends much time in a specified place <a mall rat >
– rat · like \ - ˌ l ī k \ adjective