Definition of "rathe"

rathe

/ɹeɪð/

adjective
comparative rather, superlative rathest
1. (poetic) Ripening or blooming early.
  Quotations
  Bring the rathe primrose that forsaken dies.
  1637, John Milton, “Lycidas”, in Poems of Mr. John Milton, […], London: […] Ruth Raworth for Humphrey Mosely, […], published 1646
  Thy converse drew us with delight,The men of rathe and riper years:The feeble soul, a haunt of fears,Forgot his weakness in thy sight.
  1849, Alfred, Lord Tennyson, In Memoriam A.H.H., canto 111
adverb
comparative rather, superlative rathest
1. (obsolete) Quickly.
2. (poetic) Early in the morning.