Rale \R[^a]le\, n. [F. r[^a]le. Cf. Rail the bird.]

(Med.) An adventitious sound, usually of morbid origin, accompanying the normal respiratory sounds. See Rhonchus.

Note: 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.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)