Advertisement
Advertisement
desert rat
noun
- any of various small rodents, as the kangaroo rat, inhabiting arid regions.
- Chiefly Western U.S. one who lives in the desert, especially in order to prospect for gold or other valuable minerals.
- Informal. a soldier fighting in the N African desert in World War II, especially a British soldier.
desert rat
noun
- a jerboa, Jaculus orientalis, inhabiting the deserts of N Africa
- informal.a soldier who served in North Africa with the British 7th Armoured Division in 1941–42
Discover More
Word History and Origins
Origin of desert rat1
An Americanism dating back to 1905–10
Discover More
Example Sentences
Two were even willing to pose for a picture by their kills: one had a five-foot rattlesnake; the other a desert rat.
From Project Gutenberg
He was simply another "desert rat" obsessed with the idea that gold was to be found in those northern hills.
From Project Gutenberg
That meant he had been found and rescued by some Martian desert rat who had probably witnessed his fall.
From Project Gutenberg
"Sandstorm" warned the Desert Rat, and spoke quickly to the mozo in Spanish.
From Project Gutenberg
He even copied the exact wording on the Desert Rat's notices.
From Project Gutenberg
Advertisement
Word of the Day
[tawr-choo-uhs ]
Meaning and examplesStart each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!
By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Browse