rat's-tail noun.
['ratsteɪl] L16.[from RAT noun1 + -'S1 + TAIL noun1.]1. In
pl. Scabby or suppurating cracks on a horse's pasterns, with acute soreness. Cf.
SCRATCH noun1 2a. Now
rare or
obsolete.
L16.2. A thing resembling a rat's tail in shape;
spec. a lank lock of hair.
E19.
Comb.:
rat's-tail cactus a pendent cactus,
Aporocactus flagelliformis, with spiny whiplike stems bearing numerous crimson flowers;
rat's-tail fescue an annual grass of dry rough ground,
Vulpia myuros, with long narrow panicles;
rat's-tail plantain the greater plantain,
Plantago major.
[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲