How Do You Spell RATTAILS?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈate͡ɪlz] (IPA)

The word "rattails" is spelled with two t's, even though the pronunciation only contains one t sound. This is because the word is a compound noun made up of "rats" and "tails". The double t spelling in "tails" transfers over to the compound word. The IPA phonetic transcription of "rattails" is /ræteɪlz/, with the /t/ sound being represented by the "t" and "s" letters together. It's important to pay attention to compound word spellings in English in order to write accurately and avoid common spelling mistakes.

RATTAILS Meaning and Definition

1. Rattails is a term that refers to a specific hairstyle characterized by a thin, elongated section of hair at the back of the head, resembling the tail of a rat. The name originates from the resemblance of the hair section to the long, thin tail of certain rat species.

   Typically, the rattails hairstyle involves shaving or closely trimming the sides and top of the head, leaving only the elongated section of hair at the back uncut. The length of the rattail can vary, with some individuals opting for shorter versions that barely reach the neck, while others choose to grow it longer, extending well below the shoulders. Rattails can be styled in various ways, including straight, curled, braided, or adorned with accessories.

   The style gained popularity during the 1970s and 1980s, especially among young males. It was often associated with countercultures and rebellious youth movements of the time. Despite being perceived as a fashion statement during that era, rattails are now generally considered outdated and unfashionable in mainstream society.

   Additionally, the term "rattails" can also refer to the appendage-like extensions sometimes found in certain aquatic animals, particularly molusks, that resemble the tail of a rat. It can also describe the long, thin tails of some other animals, even if not directly resembling a rat's tail.

Etymology of RATTAILS

The word "rattails" is a combination of two separate words: "rat" and "tails".

The term "rat" originates from Old English "ræt", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "rattaz" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*rodent", meaning "gnawing animal". Over time, "rat" specifically came to refer to various species of rodents.

The term "tail" has its roots in Old English "tæġl", derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*taglo", which means "hair, fleece, tail". This word also evolved from the Proto-Indo-European root "*dek", which pertains to something long and thin.

When combined, "rat" and "tails" in the plural form "rattails" simply refers to the long, thin tails of rats.

Similar spelling word for RATTAILS

• ratlike.