Researchers Propose Updating Dictionary Definition of Rat to Reflect Modern Scientific Understanding
Animal Rights Activists Target Cambridge Dictionary Over "Rat" Definition
(Image: PETA’s letter to Cambridge Dictionary editor Rachel Fletcher)
Animal rights group PETA, known for campaigns against chicken slaughter, circus animals, and captive orcas, has set its sights on an unlikely target: the Cambridge Dictionary. The organization is urging editors to revise the "unfair" informal definition of "rat," which currently labels humans as "unpleasant person[s] who deceive[] others or [are] not loyal."
In a letter to editor Rachel Fletcher, PETA Vice President Elisa Allen argued the definition harms rats’ reputation, perpetuating misconceptions that justify their abuse. The dictionary’s animal-focused entry describes rats as "harmful" rodents, while the informal human comparison implies deceit. PETA contends both definitions are inaccurate, stating rats are "pleasant, loyal individuals" with strong family bonds and empathy.
(Image: Rat in London’s Tottenham neighborhood, labeled a "pest")
The letter highlights rats’ altruism, citing studies where rats help strangers in distress and even "laugh" via chirps when tickled. "Misleading definitions can play a role in their abuse," PETA wrote, noting rats are poisoned, trapped, or subjected to cruel lab experiments. Britannica traces the negative connotations to rats fleeing sinking ships (seen as abandonment) and historical links to disease.
The RSPCA echoed this sentiment on World Rat Day, urging the public to "be kind" to rats, calling them "intelligent, playful, and social." Despite their reputation, domestic rats form deep bonds with humans and experience emotions like joy and stress.
(Image: Rat in a trap, illustrating PETA’s concerns about mistreatment)
This isn’t PETA’s first linguistic campaign. In 2023, they asked Farrow & Ball to rename paints like "Dead Salmon" and "Potted Shrimp," suggesting animal-friendly alternatives such as "Magic Mushroom."
Rat Intelligence: More Than Meets the Eye
- Empathy: Rats assist others in danger, even sacrificing food to help.
- Social Bonds: They form lifelong attachments and grieve lost companions.
- Playfulness: They “laugh” when tickled and enjoy games.
- Memory: Studies show they replay daily experiences during sleep, enhancing learning.
(Image: Rat interacting with a human, showcasing social behavior)
PETA hopes a definition change will shift perceptions, reminding the public that rats are "sentient individuals," not pests. The Cambridge Dictionary has yet to respond.
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