rattler

noun

rat·​tler ˈra-tᵊl-ər How to pronounce rattler (audio)
ˈrat-lər
1
: one that rattles
2

Examples of rattler in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
After a bit of struggle and a close call or two, Kennedy successfully wrangles the rattler into the bucket. Drew Pittock, USA Today, 28 May 2026 Not a rattler, but a baby boa constrictor (named Little Bitch). Bethy Squires, Vulture, 25 May 2026 Garcia wrote about the potential reasons for the increase in attacks and how best to react when confronted with a rattler. Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 25 Apr. 2026 Just about all of my rattler hunting is in Wyoming County, north of Pittston, in the vicinity of Noxen, Forkston, or Lovelton. Dr. C. E. Kuschel, Outdoor Life, 9 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rattler

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rattler was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rattler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rattler. Accessed 4 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

rattler

noun
rat·​tler ˈrat-lər How to pronounce rattler (audio)
-ᵊl-ər

More from Merriam-Webster on rattler

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster