Ratlike: meaning, definitions and examples
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ratlike
[ ˈrætˌlaɪk ]
appearance, characteristics
The term 'ratlike' describes something that resembles or exhibits characteristics of a rat. This may include physical features such as a long tail, sharp teeth, or a pointed snout. The term can also imply certain behaviors associated with rats, such as being sneaky or deceitful. Often, 'ratlike' is used in a derogatory sense to describe a person or entity that is considered treacherous or untrustworthy.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The ratlike creature scurried across the floor.
- His ratlike behavior made others distrust him.
- She had a ratlike appearance, with beady eyes and a twitchy nose.
Translations
Translations of the word "ratlike" in other languages:
🇵🇹 semelhante a rato
🇮🇳 चूहा जैसा
🇩🇪 rattenähnlich
🇮🇩 mirip tikus
🇺🇦 схожий на щура
🇵🇱 podobny do szczura
🇯🇵 ネズミのような
🇫🇷 semblable à un rat
🇪🇸 similar a una rata
🇹🇷 fare benzeri
🇰🇷 쥐 같은
🇸🇦 يشبه الجرذ
🇨🇿 podobný krysám
🇸🇰 podobný na potkana
🇨🇳 像老鼠一样
🇸🇮 podoben podganu
🇮🇸 músarlíkur
🇰🇿 тышқанға ұқсас
🇬🇪 თაგვივით
🇦🇿 siçovula bənzər
🇲🇽 similar a una rata
Etymology
The word 'ratlike' is a compound adjective formed from 'rat', which has its roots in Old English 'ræt', and the suffix '-like' which indicates resemblance. The term 'rat' originally referred to a type of rodent known for its adaptability and often unsavory characteristics. This word has been used in English since the 14th century. As society began to associate rats with filth and dishonesty, the usage of 'rat' in a metaphorical sense became prevalent. The suffix '-like' has been used since the early Middle English period to create adjectives that denote similarity or resemblance. Together, 'ratlike' emerged as a descriptor not just for physical traits that resemble those of a rat but also for behaviors that evoke the stereotypical characteristics attributed to rats.