Where does drat come from?

The first records of drat in English come from the early 1800s. It is likely an alteration of the archaic phrase God rot as in God rot you for that, you rapscallion! (Note: If someone ever says this to you, you probably deserved it.)

Despite its origin, drat is used as a mild alternative for damn—much like darn, dang, and doggone. Is it most often used as an interjection, as in Drat, my joints ache or Drat! I’m late! It can also be used as a verb, as in Drat this rain!

To our modern ears, drat sounds old-timey or outdated. If someone were to say those examples above, it’s probably because they’re trying to be a bit funny or ironic.