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noun

prat

prat

Prat (noun) means a foolish or contemptible person (British informal). Example: “Stop acting like such a prat and just apologize.”

noun
1
A foolish or contemptible person (British informal).
"Stop acting like such a prat and just apologize."
2
A person's buttocks (informal, dated).
"He slipped and landed square on his prat."

How to use prat

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishBritish slang for an idiot or someone acting foolishly; also old slang for the backside.

When to use it

Informal and mildly rude — mainly heard in British English.

Word forms

more prat comparative, prats plural, prats plural, most prat superlative

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Stop acting like such a _____ and just apologize.

Etymology

From Old English "prætt," meaning "trick" or "wile" — the sense shifted over time from "a trick" to "a foolish person," and separately came to mean "buttocks."

Origin: Old English

Related words

Rhymes for prat

See all rhymes for prat →

Frequently asked questions

What does “prat” mean?

The word “prat” means a foolish or contemptible person (British informal). In plain terms, british slang for an idiot or someone acting foolishly; also old slang for the backside.

How do you pronounce “prat”?

“Prat” is pronounced prat (/pɹat/ in IPA).

How do you use “prat” in a sentence?

Here is “prat” used in a sentence: “Stop acting like such a prat and just apologize.”

What part of speech is “prat”?

“Prat” is a noun.

Where does the word “prat” come from?

The word “prat” comes from Old English.

How many meanings does “prat” have?

“Prat” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a foolish or contemptible person (British informal).

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial