RAT, Fr. literally means rat. It is used in a figurative sense, viz. Une arme à feu a pris un rat. A musquet has missed fire.
Rat. Fr. a sort of floating platform made of planks which are tied together upon two or three masts. It is used in caulking ships, &c.
RATAN, a cane used by serjeants of companies, in the British service in drilling the men, and with which, in other countries, the non-commissioned officers and privates, are beaten for slight offences; the Austrian discipline was thus conducted, till they have been beaten out of their manhood and self-respect. The Prussians abolished this barbarous custom after the battle of Jena.
RATELIER, Fr. a rack used in armories, &c. for the purpose of keeping firearms arranged in proper order.
RATER, Fr. to miss fire. Son pistolet a rate. His pistol has missed fire.
Rater likewise means, figuratively, to be unsuccessful in an application. Il a rate sa charge. He did not get the commission.
RATES of subsistence, See [Pay].
RATION, a certain allowance which is given in bread, &c. or forage when troops are on service, for an officer or soldier in the British service.
Complete Ration of the small species.
| Flour, or bread | 1 | ¹⁄₂ | lbs. |
| Beef | 1 | ||
| Or pork | ¹⁄₂ | ||
| Peas | ¹⁄₄ | pint. | |
| Butter, or cheese | 1 | oz. | |
| Rice | 1 | oz. |