English Explanatory Dictionary

rat race

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. An activity or situation which is congested with participants and which is hectic or tedious, especially in the context of a busy, modern urban lifestyle.
  2. The busy, modern urban lifestyle itself, especially when seen as a competition for wealth or power.
  3. Inconsiderate or unfair competition, where the competitors are willing to use any means to win.

Pronunciation

/ˈɹæt ˌɹeɪs/ /ˈɹæt ˌɹæɪs/ En-au-rat race.ogg

Word forms

rat race rat races rat-race

Etymology

From rat + race.

Derived words

rat racer rat-race
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