English Explanatory Dictionary

ratline

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. The rope or similar material used to make cross-ropes on a ship.
  2. Any of the cross ropes between the shrouds, which form a net-like ropework, allowing sailors to climb up towards the top of the mast.
  3. A system of escape routes for Nazis and other fascists fleeing Europe in the aftermath of World War II.

Pronunciation

/ˈɹætlɪn/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-ratline.wav

Word forms

ratline ratlines ratlin rattlin rattline

Etymology

Apparently a corruption of raddling by folk-etymological reanalysis as rat + line.

Derived words

ratline stuff
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