Relative of the rat, dingo, weasel, etc. (5)

I believe the answer is:

skunk

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'relative of the rat' is the definition.
'skunk' can be an answer for 'rat' (synonyms). I'm unsure of the 'relative of the' bit.

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for skunk that I've seen before include "Animal that can eject a foul-smelling fluid" , "Strong pot" , "Marijuana - scumbag" , "Vile-smelling animal" , "Evil-smelling animal of N America" .)

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