rattan

noun

rat·​tan ra-ˈtan 

rə-

1

: a rattan cane or switch

2

a

: a climbing palm (especially of the genera Calamus and Daemonorops) with very long tough stems

b

: a part of the jointed stem of a rattan used especially for furniture, wickerwork, and walking sticks

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Made with durable rattan and a sturdy steel frame, the set includes a loveseat, two armchairs, and a coffee table, providing ample seating in a compact space. —Kristine Thomason, Travel + Leisure, 29 May 2023

Currently $630 off, it's made from durable polyethylene rattan and topped with plush cushions for you and your guests to relax on. —Samantha Jones, goodhousekeeping.com, 26 May 2023

They’re made from an iron frame and water-resistant wicker and rattan. —Shari Uyehara, NBC News, 5 Mar. 2021

In the wide upstairs hallway, Todd placed an 1815 Portuguese daybed, made of rosewood and rattan, and covered it in raw silk. —Tessa Watson, ELLE Decor, 22 Mar. 2023

This stylish chaise looks like natural rattan but is actually made of aluminum with wicker and resin to withstand all types of summer weather. —Rena Behar, Travel + Leisure, 1 Mar. 2023

The outdoor section blends seamlessly with the interior thanks to the shades of terra cotta, saddle brown and tan mixed with white, along with seating made of leather, wood and rattan. —Bahar Anooshahr, The Arizona Republic, 1 Mar. 2023

Glossy black rattan in a top handle silhouette is sophistication in a carryall. —Town & Country, 8 Feb. 2023

Woven rattan is studded with glistening studs, and there’s further textural detail thanks to the inner silk drawstring purse and the oversized beaded-come-crystal handle. —Felicity Carter, Forbes, 19 Apr. 2021

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Word History

Etymology

Malay rotan

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Kids Definition

rattan

noun

rat·​tan ra-ˈtan 

rə-

1

: a climbing palm with very long tough stems

2

: a part of a rattan stem used especially for furniture and wickerwork