Definition
An old, unattractive automobile, purchased for little money, to be driven during brutal Great Lakes winters while the owner's "good" car remains garaged and protected from corrosive road salt for the season.
Origins
Believed to have originated in or around Syracuse, New York.
Also Said As
- beater
- clunker
- junker
- jalopy
How People Actually Use It
A beat-up vehicle driven in winter so as not to damage another vehicle that is in better condition and/or costs more. Originates from the snowbelt, particularly Syracuse, New York.
"When the Weather Channel predicted snow, John parked his new BMW in his garage and took his 1985 winter rat to the game instead."
Source: Urban Dictionary