Lab rat Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A 'lab rat' is a rat used in scientific experiments. Informally, it can also mean a person who spends a lot of time working in a laboratory or is constantly tested or experimented on.
Usage & Nuances
Informal; literal meaning is for scientific animals, but the figurative sense for people is very common, especially among scientists and students. Not usually offensive, often used humorously or with pride ('I'm a real lab rat'). Can refer to feeling like an experiment subject.
Example Sentences
The scientist put the lab rat in the maze.
basic
He works so much in the lab that he feels like a lab rat.
basic
Many medical advances use data from lab rats.
basic
After my third experiment today, I really feel like a lab rat.
natural
I'm basically a lab rat during exam season.
natural
Don't worry, you'll get used to being a lab rat in this program!
natural