Raking: meaning, definitions and examples

🍂

Add to dictionary

raking

[ˈreɪkɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

gardening tool

Raking refers to the process of collecting and gathering fallen leaves, grass clippings, or other debris using a tool called a rake. This activity is commonly performed in gardens or yards during autumn when leaves fall from trees. Raking helps maintain a tidy appearance and promotes healthier grass growth by allowing sunlight and air to reach the soil. It is also essential for preventing the buildup of mold and disease in grassy areas.

Synonyms

cleaning, collecting, gathering.

Examples of usage

I spent the afternoon raking leaves.
Raking the lawn helps it stay healthy.
She enjoys raking the garden every fall.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

gardening action

To rake means to collect or gather something using a rake. This action is often associated with clearing leaves, debris, or grass clippings from a surface, typically in a garden or yard. Raking can also involve smoothing out soil or mulch to create an even surface before planting. It requires physical effort and is often a seasonal chore during spring and fall.

Synonyms

clean, gather, smooth.

Examples of usage

I need to rake the backyard.
He is raking the leaves every weekend.
They are raking the pathway clean.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'rake' comes from the Old English 'racian', which means to collect or gather, linking back to its primary purpose.
In Middle English, the term evolved into 'raken', illustrating its long history in agricultural practices.
The modern usage of 'rake' has been around since at least the 14th century, showcasing its importance in gardening and farming.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, raking leaves symbolizes the transition from fall to winter, marking the change of seasons.
Some communities hold raking festivals where people gather to clean up parks, fostering teamwork and environmental care.
Raking can be a meditative practice in gardening, promoting mindfulness and relaxation as people focus on their surroundings.

Science

Raking can improve soil health by allowing sunlight and air to penetrate the ground after leaves decompose, fostering better plant growth.
Certain raking techniques can help maintain native ecosystems by preventing the buildup of organic debris that can hinder growth.
Research shows that regular raking can reduce pest populations by removing their habitats, promoting a healthier garden.

Art

Raking is often depicted in art, particularly in paintings of serene landscapes showcasing seasonal change.
Japanese rock gardens use raking to create intricate patterns in the sand, representing water ripples, highlighting the artistic side of this action.
Various performance arts have included raking as a metaphor for clearing away the old to allow for new growth, conveying themes of renewal.

Translations

Translations of the word "raking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 raking

🇮🇳 कांटने

🇩🇪 Rechen

🇮🇩 menyapu

🇺🇦 гребля

граблі
прибирання

🇵🇱 grabienie

🇯🇵 レーキング

🇫🇷 râteau

🇪🇸 rastrillar

🇹🇷 taramak

🇰🇷 갈퀴질

🇸🇦 تنظيف

🇨🇿 hrabání

🇸🇰 hrabanie

🇨🇳 耙

🇸🇮 raking

🇮🇸 rakning

🇰🇿 күрекпен жинау

🇬🇪 დასუფთავება

🇦🇿 yığma

🇲🇽 rastrillar

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,586, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
20583 refinancing
20584 apricot
20585 hematoma
20586 raking
20587 kinda
20588 delimitation
20589 sonorous
...