rattan

noun

rat·​tan ra-ˈtan 

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

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

This intricate basket woven out of natural rattan offers a chic solution for hauling blooms from the backyard to your favorite vase. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 17 June 2025

Made from natural rattan, this piece features a sturdy frame and is available in both natural and seashell colors. —Amanda Lauren, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Malay rotan

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Rhymes for rattan

• afghan
• bedpan
• began
• caveman
• chapin
• crankpin
• cyan
• deadpan
• dextran
• divan
• doorman
• fishman

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