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.
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!