# rat race

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈɹæt ˌɹeɪs/

## Definitions
1. An activity or situation which is congested with participants and which is hectic or tedious, especially in the context of a busy, modern urban lifestyle.
2. The busy, modern urban lifestyle itself, especially when seen as a competition for wealth or power.
3. Inconsiderate or unfair competition, where the competitors are willing to use any means to win.

## Etymology
From rat + race.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/rat-race