rat meaning and definition

RAT noun

Definition of rat (noun)

1. any of various long-tailed rodents similar to but larger than a mouse
2. someone who works (or provides workers) during a strike
   • synonyms: blackleg, scab, strikebreaker
3. a person who is deemed to be despicable or contemptible
   • "only a rotter would do that"; "kill the rat"; "throw the bum out"; "you cowardly little pukes!"; "the British call a contemptible person a `git'"
   • synonyms: bum, crumb, dirty dog, git, lowlife, puke, rotter, scum bag, skunk, so-and-so, stinker, stinkpot
4. one who reveals confidential information in return for money
   • synonyms: betrayer, blabber, informer, squealer
5. a pad (usually made of hair) worn as part of a woman's coiffure

RAT verb

Definition of rat (verb)

1. desert one's party or group of friends, for example, for one's personal advantage
2. employ scabs or strike breakers in
3. take the place of work of someone on strike
   • synonyms: blackleg, fink, scab
4. give (hair) the appearance of being fuller by using a rat
5. catch rats, especially with dogs
6. give away information about somebody
   • "He told on his classmate who had cheated on the exam"
   • synonyms: betray, denounce, give away, grass, shit, shop, snitch, stag, tell on