\Mah*rat"ta\, n. [Hind. Marhat[=a], Marh[=a]tt[=a], the name of a famous Hindoo race, from the old Skr. name Mah[=a]-r[=a]shtra.] One of a numerous people inhabiting the southwestern part of India. Also, the language of the Mahrattas; Mahrati. It is closely allied to Sanskrit. -- a. Of or pertaining to the Mahrattas. [Written also {Maratha}.]