Synonyms for

Rat

Noun / ræt / Another word for rat — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a small, furry animal that is often considered a pest

Synonyms & similar words

rotter skunk stinker grass stag strikebreaker lowlife bum betrayer shit crumb informer git squealer denounce blackleg scab betray shop snitch puke blabber fink stinkpot rodent mouse vermin critter varmint pest scavenger scurry sneak creep fink snitch informant traitor double-crosser deceiver cheat swindler thief robber

Synonyms by register

Formal

rodent vermin

Informal

pest scurrier critter

Literary

scoundrel villain

Antonyms

angel hero saint virtuous person good person

Common collocations

  • black rat
  • brown rat
  • sewer rat
  • pack rat
  • street rat
  • laboratory rat
  • rat race

Word family

noun rat
verb rat
adjective ratty

Usage note

The word 'rat' is often used metaphorically to describe a treacherous or disloyal person. It carries a strong negative connotation.

Compare "rat" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. I saw a rat in the alley behind our house.
  2. The rat chewed through the wires in the wall.
  3. The cat caught a rat in the barn.
  4. I don't like rats because they can carry diseases.
  5. The rat scurried away when it saw me.

Quotes

  • One man's rat is another man's rabbit.
  • Don't call the alligator, big mouth, till you cross the river.
  • A rat who gnaws at a cat's tail invites destruction.

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