ratter

noun

rat·​ter ˈra-tər How to pronounce ratter (audio)
: one that catches rats
specifically : a rat-catching dog or cat

Examples of ratter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The small, powerful and sturdily built dogs are bred to be cattle herders and ratters. Aliza Chasan, CBS News, 3 Jan. 2024 Remember that not all breeds are suited to all lifestyles, and some German dog breeds require a firm hand to encourage mannerly behavior. 1 Schnauzer Known for its spirited intelligence, this breed has long had a job to do on family farms as ratters, herders, guardians, and hunters. Arricca Elin Sansone, Woman's Day, 23 Mar. 2023 Cats proved so apt at their duties that the Egyptians linked the ratters to their religious deities. Jackie Mansky, Smithsonian, 14 Aug. 2017 In New York City, a rat-hunting club for owners of terriers and other dogs bred as ratters has become famous. National Geographic, 29 Sep. 2017 The transition from ratter to pampered housecat had a ways to go, though. Jackie Mansky, Smithsonian, 14 Aug. 2017 Even in that small place, their reputations preceded them: legendary ratters, breakers of serpents, lightning fast and smart like all get out. Junot DÍaz, New York Times, 17 May 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ratter.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ratter was in the 13th century

Dictionary Entries Near ratter

Cite this Entry

“Ratter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ratter. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

ratter

noun
rat·​ter ˈrat-ər How to pronounce ratter (audio)
: a rat-catching dog or cat
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