Pronunciation: [spɹˈat] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "spratt" can be a bit tricky to decipher. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /spræt/. The "s" makes the "ssss" sound, the "p" makes the "puh" sound, the "r" makes the "r" sound, the "a" makes the "æ" sound as in "cat", and the "t" makes the "tuh" sound. So, when writing this word, remember to use two "t's" at the end to properly convey its pronunciation.
Sprat is a noun that refers to a type of small fish belonging to the family Clupeidae, commonly found in coastal waters. It is characterized by its slender body, typically measuring about two to six inches in length, and its silver-colored scales. Sprats are highly abundant in marine habitats and form an essential part of the diet for many species of larger fish, birds, and marine mammals.
The term "spratt" is often used interchangeably with "European sprat" (Sprattus sprattus), a species commonly found in the Northeast Atlantic, Baltic Sea, and Mediterranean. These oily fish are known for their rich flavor, making them a popular choice for culinary purposes, especially in the form of canned or smoked delicacies.
Sprats are also used as bait for fishing, particularly in recreational angling and commercial fishing industries, due to their high bait value in attracting predatory game fish. Additionally, the oily nature of sprats makes them a valuable source of omega-3 fatty acids, providing important nutritional benefits to consumers.
In a broader context, "spratt" may be used metaphorically or colloquially to refer to a small, insignificant, or inconspicuous person or object. This secondary definition stems from the resemblance between the small size of a sprat fish and the notion of something being small or unimportant in other contexts.
