Ratel \Ra"tel\, n. [F.] (Zo["o]l.) Any carnivore of the genus {Mellivora}, allied to the weasels and the skunks; -- called also {honey badger}. Note: Several species are known in Africa and India. The Cape ratel ({M. Capensis}) and the Indian ratel ({M. Indica}) are the best known. The back is gray; the lower parts, face, and tail are black. They are fond of honey, and rob the nests of wild bees.