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Rathole - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A rathole is a small, narrow hole made or used by rats. Figuratively, it refers to a messy, cramped space or a pointless, time-wasting activity that is difficult to escape from.

rathole

/ˈrætˌhoʊl/ /ˈrætˌhəʊl/

Definition:

A small, dirty, or cramped space; also refers to wasting money or resources.

Synonyms:

dump, dive, shack, hovel, pit

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

palace, mansion

Common Collocations:

filthy rathole, money rathole, dark rathole

Derivatives:

ratholing (verb), ratholed (past tense)

Usage Tips:

Use "rathole" literally for a rodent's den or figuratively for wasteful spending or a squalid place.

Common Phrases:

down the rathole, throw money into a rathole

Etymology:

From "rat" + "hole," originally referring to a rodent's burrow, later extended metaphorically.

Examples:

  • 1. The basement was a damp rathole filled with old boxes.
  • 2. He wasted his savings by throwing money down a rathole of bad investments.
  • 3. They lived in a tiny rathole apartment near the train tracks.
  • 4. Stop ratholing your earnings on useless gadgets!

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