Rats: meaning, definitions and examples
๐
rats
[rรฆts ]
Definition
rodent
Rats are small rodents that are known for their sharp teeth and long tails. They are often considered pests due to their ability to spread disease and damage property. Rats are highly adaptable creatures that can be found in urban, suburban, and rural environments.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rats |
Use 'rats' to refer to larger rodents that generally evoke a negative reaction, often found in urban environments or dirty places, sometimes associated with disease. It's commonly used to describe a problem in an area or to insult someone.
|
| rodents |
Use 'rodents' when referring to the general family of small mammals that include rats, mice, squirrels, etc. This term is neutral and often used in scientific or ecological contexts.
|
| mice |
Use 'mice' to refer to smaller rodents, often viewed as less threatening or even cute, commonly found in homes or countryside areas. They are also used in scientific research.
|
| vermin |
Use 'vermin' to describe small animals or insects that are perceived as pests. This term has a strong negative connotation and is used to express disdain or annoyance.
|
Examples of usage
- Be careful when storing food, as rats are known to infest pantries and cupboards.
- The city has launched a rat control program to address the growing population of rats in residential areas.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Rats have been companions to humans for thousands of years, often found in ancient cities like Rome and Babylon.
- The black rat was a significant player in spreading the bubonic plague in the 14th century.
- They were first domesticated in the late 19th century, leading to the creation of fancy breeds for pets.
Science
- In labs, rats are commonly used for experiments due to their genetic, biological, and behavioral similarities to humans.
- They experience emotions similar to humans, demonstrating empathy when they help others in distress.
- Some species, like the Norway rat, can swim up to half a mile and hold their breath for several minutes.
Pop Culture
- Rats have been featured in various films, such as 'Ratatouille,' where a rat aspires to become a chef!
- In many cultures, rats symbolize cunning and survival, often portrayed in folklore and stories.
- The term 'rat' has also been used in slang to describe someone who betrays others, especially in crime.
Literature
- Rats appear in classic literature, such as 'The Tale of Despereaux,' where a brave little rat embarks on an adventure.
- The story 'The Pied Piper of Hamelin' tells how a mysterious piper lured away rats from a town, reflecting the human-rat relationship.
- Rats have often been used as characters to represent cleverness or, sometimes, trickery in various novels.
Psychology
- Research shows observing rats can provide insights into human social behaviors, as they thrive in social environments.
- Studies of their behavior help psychologists understand concepts like fear, pleasure, and learning processes.
- Rats display altruism, often sharing food with others even if they could easily consume it all themselves.
Translations
Translations of the word "rats" in other languages:
๐ต๐น ratos
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคนเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Ratten
๐ฎ๐ฉ tikus
๐บ๐ฆ ัััะธ
๐ต๐ฑ szczury
๐ฏ๐ต ใใบใ
๐ซ๐ท rats
๐ช๐ธ ratas
๐น๐ท sฤฑรงanlar
๐ฐ๐ท ์ฅ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุฌุฑุฐุงู
๐จ๐ฟ krysy
๐ธ๐ฐ potkany
๐จ๐ณ ่้ผ
๐ธ๐ฎ podgane
๐ฎ๐ธ rottur
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะตะณะตัาาฑะนััาัะฐั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแ แแฎแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ siรงanlar
๐ฒ๐ฝ ratas