[ˈrɑːðə], (Adverb)

Definitions:
- used to indicate one's preference in a particular matter
(e.g: would you like some wine or would you rather stick to sherry?)

- to a certain or significant extent or degree
(e.g: she's been behaving rather strangely)

- used to suggest that the opposite of a previous statement is the case; on the contrary
(e.g: There is no shortage of basic skills in the workplace. Rather, the problem is poor management)


Phrases:
- had rather
- rather you than me

Origin:
Old English hrathor ‘earlier, sooner’, comparative of hræthe ‘without delay’, from hræth ‘prompt’ (see rathe)

[ˈrɑːðə], (Interjection)

Definitions:
- used to express emphatic affirmation, agreement, or acceptance
(e.g: ‘You are glad to be home, aren't you?’ ‘Rather!’)


Phrases:
- had rather
- rather you than me

Origin:
Old English hrathor ‘earlier, sooner’, comparative of hræthe ‘without delay’, from hræth ‘prompt’ (see rathe)