rattan

noun

rat·​tan ra-ˈtan How to pronounce rattan (audio)
rə-
1
: a rattan cane or switch
2
a
: a climbing palm (especially of the genus Calamus) with very long tough stems
b
: a part of the jointed stem of a rattan used especially for furniture, wickerwork, and walking sticks

Examples of rattan 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.
The handwoven rattan on this rectangular coffee table would look lovely in a space with coastal or bohemian vibes. Rachel Fletcher, Architectural Digest, 24 June 2025 Simply spray down the rattan occasionally to remove dust and dry the pieces after big storms to keep the set looking new. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 June 2025 The chair looks like it’s made of rattan, but is actually handwoven from durable synthetic materials in order to be rain, heat, and fade-resistant. Maggie Horton, People.com, 21 June 2025 For small areas, this three-piece set is made of weather-resistant rattan, and the chairs tuck snugly under the table when not in use. Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 20 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for rattan

Word History

Etymology

Malay rotan

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Time Traveler
The first known use of rattan was in 1606

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rattan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rattan. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

rattan

noun
rat·​tan ra-ˈtan How to pronounce rattan (audio)
rə-
1
: a climbing palm with very long tough stems
2
: a part of a rattan stem used especially for furniture and wickerwork

More from Merriam-Webster on rattan

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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