ratty

The term used to describe the hairstyle in which an elongated segment of hair which is more often than not awfully greasy and encased in dirt and stale urine, hangs from the back of the head, starting from below the ears. A 'ratty', or rat's tail, is traditionally never longer than the shoulders, yet it is not uncommon to see longer specimens. This style is appropriated in Australian fashion among bogans, ethnics, and lads. While common, ratties are not considered appropriate workplace fashion, hence their residing on the heads of less work-inclined individuals.