rattan

noun

rat·​tan ra-ˈtan 

rə-

1

: a rattan cane or switch

2

a

: a climbing palm (especially of the genera Calamus and Daemonorops) with very long tough stems

b

: a part of the jointed stem of a rattan used especially for furniture, wickerwork, and walking sticks

Examples of rattan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The sturdy metal frame is wrapped in water- and UV-resistant rattan and has a handy canopy for keeping cool in the shade. —Ali Faccenda, Peoplemag, 7 June 2024

The egg chair is made of rattan and wicker along with a sturdy aluminum frame to hold the shape. —Nicol Natale, Peoplemag, 26 May 2024

This bar cart is made to order and forged from a rare rattan. —Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 2024

Each armrest is made from sustainable and naturally water-resistant acacia wood and the base of the sectional is made from all-weather rattan that can withstand everything from the harsh sun to the rain. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Malay rotan

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Kids Definition

rattan

noun

rat·​tan ra-ˈtan 

rə-

1

: a climbing palm with very long tough stems

2

: a part of a rattan stem used especially for furniture and wickerwork