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