Rate1  —n. 1 numerical proportion between two sets of things (moving at a rate of 50 m.p.h.) Or as the basis of calculating an amount or value (rate of interest). 2 fixed or appropriate charge, cost, or value; measure of this (postal rates; the rate for the job). 3 pace of movement or change (prices increasing at a great rate). 4 (in comb.) Class or rank (first-rate). 5 (in pl.) Tax levied by local authorities on businesses (and formerly on private individuals) according to the value of buildings and land occupied. —v. (-ting) 1 a estimate the worth or value of. B assign a value to. 2 consider, regard as. 3 (foll. By as) rank or be considered. 4 a subject to the payment of a local rate. B value for the purpose of assessing rates. 5 be worthy of, deserve.  at any rate in any case, whatever happens. At this rate if this example is typical. [latin rata: related to *ratio]