Word Study
rata
CIDE DICTIONARY
rata, n. [Maori.].
A New Zealand forest tree (Metrosideros robusta ), also, its hard dark red wood, used by the Maoris for paddles and war clubs. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
rata, n. any large tree of the genus Metrosideros, esp. M. robusta of New Zealand, with crimson flowers and hard red wood.
Etymology
Maori
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