WordLens

rat

1 of 2noun
/ræt/
Forms:rats
1

a large mouse-like animal with a long tail, which spreads diseases

B1Learn more on Wikipedia

Rats are medium-sized rodents known for their adaptability and widespread distribution. They have pointed snouts, large ears, and long tails. Rats come in various species and colors, and they are found on every continent except Antarctica. Rats are known for their intelligence, agility, and ability to thrive in a wide range of habitats, including urban areas. They are typically omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods, including grains, fruits, vegetables, and sometimes insects or small animals. Rats are known for their rapid reproduction, and they can reproduce quickly and have large litters. Rats have been both vilified as pests due to their ability to damage crops and spread disease, as well as praised for their contributions to scientific research and as pets in some cultures.

  • The rat scurried along the alley, searching for scraps of food.
  • Despite efforts to control their population, rats remain a common sight in urban areas.
  • Rats are highly adaptable creatures, able to survive in diverse habitats ranging from sewers to forests.
  • The rat's keen sense of smell allows it to detect food even in the darkest corners.
  • Some cultures view rats as symbols of cunning and resourcefulness, while others consider them harbingers of disease and filth.
2

a pad, typically made of hair, worn to add volume to a woman's hairstyle

  • She inserted a rat to lift her hairstyle for the party.
  • The stylist used a rat to create a fuller look.
  • A rat adds height to a vintage updo.
  • The actress secured a rat under her curls.
  • The bride incorporated a rat for her wedding hair.
3

a person considered treacherous, despicable, or contemptible

  • He felt betrayed by a rat in the office.
  • She calls anyone who lies to friends a rat.
  • The team exposed the rat responsible for the sabotage.
  • He refuses to associate with a rat in the organization.
  • The politician labeled his opponent a rat in the campaign.
Synonyms:
bumstinkerscum bagrotterso-and-soskunkstinkpotlowlifegitpukecrumbdirty dog
4

someone who works or provides replacement workers during a strike

  • Strikers accused the man of being a rat.
  • He hires rats to keep the factory running during the strike.
  • The union condemned rats for crossing the picket line.
  • They refuse to talk to rats during labor disputes.
  • The newspaper reported that rats replaced striking employees.
Synonyms:
blacklegstrikebreakerscab
5

someone who gives information about other people and their crimes or wrongdoings to the police or authorities

C1
  • The criminal gang was furious when they discovered there was a rat in their midst.
  • He was labeled a rat after he cooperated with the police and testified against his former associates.
  • The informant was always cautious, knowing the risks involved in being a rat.
  • Being called a rat is considered a serious insult in many criminal circles.
  • The police relied on the rat's information to dismantle the drug trafficking operation.
Synonyms:
blabberinformerbetrayersquealer