Advertisement
Advertisement
drat
[ drat ]
verb (used with object)
- to damn; confound:
Drat your interference.
interjection
- (used to express mild disgust, disappointment, or the like):
Drat, there goes another button off my shirt.
drat
/ dræt /
interjection
- slang.an exclamation of annoyance (also in the phrases drat it! drat you! etc)
Discover More
Word History and Origins
Origin of drat1
Discover More
Word History and Origins
Origin of drat1
Discover More
Example Sentences
To their intense surprise, the usually placid Younkins turned savagely upon the dog, and saying, “Drat that fool dog!”
I've scarce a marvedy in hand, now; so let him have a writ in his, drat him.
"Drat the little dickey-birds," interrupted Mr. Kybird, with sudden violence.
I got what everybody gets who deals with that old rascal—the bad end of the trade, drat him!
Ah, don't go breakin' your angel's 'eart along of Arthur, my precious—and drat him too!
Advertisement
Discover More
More About Drat
What does drat mean?
Drat is something you say to express mild frustration, disappointment, or disgust.
Drat is most commonly used as an interjection (something exclaimed to express some kind of emotion). Less commonly, it is used as a verb with a meaning similar to damn, for which it is considered a euphemism (a milder version).
Example: Drat, I lost my phone!
Where does drat come from?
The first records of drat in English come from the early 1800s. It is likely an alteration of the archaic phrase God rot as in God rot you for that, you rapscallion! (Note: If someone ever says this to you, you probably deserved it.)
Despite its origin, drat is used as a mild alternative for damn—much like darn, dang, and doggone. Is it most often used as an interjection, as in Drat, my joints ache or Drat! I’m late! It can also be used as a verb, as in Drat this rain!
To our modern ears, drat sounds old-timey or outdated. If someone were to say those examples above, it’s probably because they’re trying to be a bit funny or ironic.
Did you know ... ?
What are some synonyms for drat?
What are some words that share a root or word element with drat?
What are some words that often get used in discussing drat?
How is drat used in real life?
Drat is usually used as an interjection in situations when one is frustrated, though perhaps not so severely.
Oh drat! I’ve done it again! Blissful kitty was slumbering on my bed when foolish me tossed clothes on her because she camouflaged so well with all the other clothes she was on top of. Oh what an awful thing I’ve done! 😔
— Clara Smith (@AestheticGiant) January 19, 2020
Had to reset the app again because notifications were broken and now I'm cursed to see your likes on my feed again. Drat. Drat and zounds.
— ⚔NintendoPowerPenguin🛡 (@indie_grunge) January 16, 2020
Drat! This whiteboard is stuck and won't flip. Oh well – I'll just climb up and muscle it down. Don't worry.
I mean, what's the worst that could happen anyways? 😈 pic.twitter.com/X8o5uliPMM
— Dave Miotke (@SimGuruNinja) January 24, 2020
Try using drat!
Is drat used correctly in the following sentence?
Drat, I just stubbed my toe on the table.
Word of the Day
[pet-ri-kawr]
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