Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

rat-race

noun

/ˈræt reɪs/

Definition

A frustrating, hard-to-escape situation in which people compete with each other for success, often in work or life.

Examples

The daily rat race leaves little time for personal interests.
Many people feel trapped in the rat race, always striving for promotions and bonuses.
She decided to leave the rat race behind and pursue her passion for painting.

Meaning

The term describes a competitive lifestyle that can feel endless or exhausting, typically characterized by the pursuit of material success or social status.