RAKE

What Does RAKE Mean in a Text?

The Quick Answer

RAKE is an old English word that means "immoral womanizer."

More Detail...

It is also an Irish slang word that means "a lot" (as in "much," "many").

Immoral Womanizer

The word RAKE was widely used in England during the 16th to 19th centuries, to refer to immoral young male members of the aristocracy. RAKEs were notorious for their loutish behavior and womanizing. During the 20th century, the term RAKE fell from common use. However, interest in the word was reignited as a result of the popularity of the Netflix television period drama series Bridgerton, which is set in the world of Regency era (early 19th century) London.

Bar owner: Those rich boys trashed my bar, assaulted my staff, and refused to pay.
Police Chief: Oh my! They are such RAKES.

A Lot

RAKE is also Irish slang for "a lot" (as in "much" or "many"). For example:

That's a RAKE of cash you've got there!
There's RAKEs of people going on Friday.

Image for RAKE

When I write RAKE, I mean this:

"Immoral Womanizer"

Summary of Key Points for the First Definition of RAKE

"Immoral Womanizer" is, by far, the most common meaning for RAKE when it is used in a text. (Bear in mind that it could have another meaning if used in a different context.)