Rale (?), n. [F. rale. Cf. Rail the bird.] Med.
An adventitious sound, usually of morbid origin, accompanying the normal respiratory sounds. See Rhonchus.
⇒ Various kinds are distinguished by pathologists; differing in intensity, as loud and small; in quality, as moist, dry, clicking, and sonorous; and in origin, as tracheal, pulmonary, and pleural.
© Webster 1913.