How Do You Spell RATFINK?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈatfɪŋk] (IPA)

Ratfink is a slang term that refers to someone who is considered a sneaky or untrustworthy person. The spelling of "ratfink" is unique, as it combines the words "rat" and "fink" into a single word. The first part of the word, "rat," is pronounced /ræt/ in IPA transcription, while the second part, "fink," is pronounced /fɪŋk/. The blended word is pronounced as /ˈrætfɪŋk/, with the stress on the first syllable. The word's origin can be traced back to the 1950s and 60s era of American youth culture.

RATFINK Meaning and Definition

1. Ratfink is a slang term commonly used to describe a person who is considered to be a traitor, betrayer, or informer. It is typically used in an informal and derogatory manner to criticize someone's perceived disloyalty or untrustworthiness. The term originated in the 1960s and gained popularity in the counterculture movement.

   The word "ratfink" is a combination of two different slang terms: "rat" and "fink." "Rat" is used metaphorically to refer to someone who betrays or informs on others, implying a similarity to the behavior of an actual rat. "Fink," on the other hand, is a term from the 1930s, denoting someone who is contemptible, unreliable, or deceitful. When combined, the two words create a powerful expression that conveys strong disapproval.

   While "ratfink" is primarily used to criticize someone's disloyalty, it can also be used more playfully or sarcastically among friends. In some cases, it may even be employed as a term of endearment, similar to how people use other slang words to tease or affectionately mock each other.

   Overall, "ratfink" is a pejorative term that labels someone as a traitor or informer, often reflecting disdain or anger towards their perceived betrayal of trust.

Common Misspellings for RATFINK

• eatfink
• datfink
• fatfink
• tatfink
• 5atfink
• 4atfink
• rztfink
• rstfink
• rwtfink
• rqtfink
• rarfink
• raffink
• ragfink
• rayfink
• ra6fink
• ra5fink
• ratdink
• ratcink
• ratvink
• ratgink

Etymology of RATFINK

The word "ratfink" is a slang term that originated in the United States during the 1950s. It is commonly used to describe a person who is deceitful, treacherous, or disloyal.

The term "rat" itself has a long history as a derogatory term for an untrustworthy or despicable person. It can be traced back to the Middle English word "raton", which meant a small rodent. Its negative connotations likely arose due to the association of rats with filth and disease.

The addition of "fink" to "rat" in "ratfink" reinforces the negative meaning. "Fink" originated in American English, specifically in the early 20th century. It was initially used to refer to a strikebreaker or an informer who betrays their associates, often in labor disputes or criminal activities.

Plural form of RATFINK is RATFINKS