Sustantivo (noun)
/ˈrata/
The word "rata" primarily refers to a type of rodent, specifically a rat. In a broader and more colloquial context, it can also denote someone who is seen as treacherous, a whistleblower, or a scoundrel. Its frequency of use is relatively high, particularly in colloquial speech and when discussing betrayal or deceit. It is more often found in oral contexts than in formal written language.
Vi una rata en el jardín ayer por la noche.
(I saw a rat in the garden last night.)
No seas rata, devuélvele el dinero a tu amigo.
(Don't be a scoundrel; give your friend back the money.)
En la película, el personaje principal es una rata que traiciona a sus amigos.
(In the movie, the main character is a rat who betrays his friends.)
The word "rata" frequently appears in several idiomatic expressions, particularly in colloquial Spanish.
Más vale ser rata que gato
(Better to be a rat than a cat.)
Meaning: It's better to be cautious and smart (like a rat), rather than foolishly curious (like a cat).
Rata de dos patas
(Two-legged rat.)
Meaning: Refers to a person who is particularly treacherous or dishonest, akin to calling someone a lowlife.
Ser una rata de laboratorio
(To be a lab rat.)
Meaning: To be a subject of experimentation or trials, typically used to describe someone who is being used or tested by others.
Estar como una rata
(To be like a rat.)
Meaning: To be in a very precarious or difficult situation.
The word "rata" comes from the Latin "rattus," which also means rat. It shares its roots with other Romance languages, reflecting its long-standing association with both the animal and, metaphorically, with treachery.