rat

The word “rat” means a rodent similar to a mouse but larger, often considered a pest. In plain terms, the rodent, or (informally) to snitch on someone.

“Rat” is pronounced rat (/ɹæt/ in IPA).

Here is “rat” used in a sentence: “A rat scurried along the subway tracks.”

Words with a similar meaning to “rat” include tell on, to finger, put the finger on and bewray.

Depending on how it is used, “rat” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “rat” comes from Old English. From Old English ræt, of uncertain deeper origin, related to similar words across Germanic languages.

“Rat” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

“Rat” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a rodent similar to a mouse but larger, often considered a pest.

Both are rodents, but a rat is generally larger than a mouse, with a longer body, a bigger head, and a thicker tail. Both are often regarded as pests, but they are distinct animals.

Calling someone a rat labels them a betrayer or informer who cannot be trusted, drawing on the rodent's reputation as a pest. It is a strongly negative, informal insult.