A brat is a child who behaves in a spoiled, demanding, or annoying way. When someone calls a kid a brat, they usually mean that child whines, throws tantrums when they don't get their way, or acts like the world revolves around them. A bratty child might refuse to share toys, complain constantly about what's for dinner, or have a meltdown in a store because their parent won't buy them something.

The word carries a negative feeling. People usually don't like being called a brat because it suggests selfishness and poor behavior. Sometimes kids act bratty without being actual brats: maybe they're overtired, sick, or having a genuinely bad day. But when someone consistently acts entitled and disrespectful, people notice.

The word can also be used more playfully among friends or family, without real meanness, like when a dad affectionately calls his daughter a “little brat” after she surprises him with a clever joke.

In a different context, brat can also be short for bratwurst, a type of German sausage that is often grilled and served on a bun.