ratty

English

Etymology

From rat +‎ -y.

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA: /ˈɹati/

• Audio (US)

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Adjective

ratty (comparative rattier, superlative rattiest)

1. Similar to a rat; ratlike.
2. Infested with rats.
3. (colloquial) In poor condition or repair; worn out; battered; tattered; torn.
   • 2000, George RR Martin, A Storm of Swords, Bantam 2011, p. 535:

     The Marcher lord was still clad in his ratty black cloak and dented breastplate with its chipped enamel lightning.

   • 2006, Clive James, North Face of Soho, Picador 2007, p. 80:

     I was having exactly that thought on a ratty mock-leather couch in Islington.

4. (UK, colloquial) Irritable, annoyed.

Anagrams

• tarty