The Clue ___ race, as from 9 to 5
The Answer RAT
The answer "RAT" fits the clue "___ race, as from 9 to 5" because it refers to the term "rat race." A rat race describes the busy and competitive nature of working life, especially in a typical office job. People often feel trapped in this routine, working long hours just to get by. The phrase captures the stress and struggle of daily work life.