Ratline: meaning, definitions and examples
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ratline
[ ˈratˌlīn ]
historical context
A ratline is a term that historically referred to a rope ladder or line used on ships. It is also associated with various covert escape routes employed by Nazis and other fugitives after World War II, predominantly leading to safe havens in South America. The term has evolved to refer to clandestine networks or connections that enable individuals to move discreetly between places or countries. In a broader metaphorical sense, a ratline may symbolize any kind of secretive or backdoor pathway used to evade detection or capture.
Synonyms
escape route, secret pathway.
Examples of usage
- The soldiers used a ratline to escape to safety.
- During the war, many relied on ratlines to flee oppressive regimes.
- He discovered a ratline that led to hidden treasures.
- Activists established a ratline to smuggle refugees across borders.
Translations
Translations of the word "ratline" in other languages:
🇵🇹 linha de fuga
🇮🇳 चूहा रेखा
🇩🇪 Rattenlinie
🇮🇩 jalur tikus
🇺🇦 щуряча лінія
🇵🇱 szczurza linia
🇯🇵 ラットライン
🇫🇷 ligne de fuite
🇪🇸 línea de ratas
🇹🇷 sıçan hattı
🇰🇷 쥐선
🇸🇦 خط الجرذان
🇨🇿 potkaní linka
🇸🇰 potkania línia
🇨🇳 老鼠线路
🇸🇮 podganska linija
🇮🇸 músarlína
🇰🇿 тышқандар желісі
🇬🇪 თაგვების ხაზი
🇦🇿 siçan xətti
🇲🇽 línea de ratas
Etymology
The word 'ratline' is believed to have originated in the maritime context in the 18th century, initially signifying the ropes used to form ladders on ships. Sailors would climb these lines to reach the top of the mast, and thus it became integral to nautical terminology. The term garnered a new dimension during and after World War II, when it became synonymous with the clandestine escape routes employed by Nazis seeking refuge from prosecution. Various networks emerged that helped individuals escape, often involving secretive arrangements facilitated by sympathizers. The modern use extends beyond physical transportation to denote any covert connection or unofficial means of escape from scrutiny, thus highlighting the evolving nature of language as it adapts to historical and cultural changes.