water rat

noun

1. any of various rodents having aquatic habits.
2. the muskrat, Ondatra zibethica.
3. (in Australia and New Guinea) any of the aquatic rats of the subfamily Hydromyinae, especially of the genus Hydromys.
4. Slang. a vagrant or thief who frequents a waterfront.

water rat

noun

1. any of several small amphibious rodents, esp the water vole or the muskrat
2. any of various amphibious rats of the subfamily Hydromyinae, of New Guinea, the Philippines, and Australia
3. informal.
   a person who is very fond of water sports

Word History and Origins

Origin of water rat¹

First recorded in 1545–55

Example Sentences

Ray says, and Linnæus after him, that the water-rat is web-footed behind.

From Project Gutenberg

A water-rat came out of his hole and fed in the grass close by.

From Project Gutenberg

But whenever the Mole mentioned his wish to the Water Rat he always found himself put off.

From Project Gutenberg

The Water Rat, like the good little fellow he was, sculled steadily on and forebore to disturb him.

From Project Gutenberg

One shoots a poli, a water rat, or a landeer and drags the carcass behind a low-flying flitter.

From Project Gutenberg