Rapids: meaning, definitions and examples

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rapids

 

[ ˈræpɪdz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

fast water

Rapids refer to fast-flowing sections of a river or stream with turbulent water caused by a steep descent in the riverbed. Rapids are characterized by white water and can range from Class I (easy and smooth) to Class VI (extremely dangerous and nearly impossible to navigate).

Synonyms

white water, whitewater.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rapids

Refer to sections of a river where the water flows very fast over rocks, creating turbulence. This term is commonly used in general descriptions or discussions about river features and activities like rafting.

  • The rapids in the Colorado River provide a thrilling experience for adventure seekers.
  • We need to navigate through the rapids carefully to avoid capsizing the boat.
white water

Describes turbulent, foamy water typically found in rapids. It is often used in the context of outdoor sports and recreational activities, highlighting the challenging and exciting nature of such conditions.

  • White water rafting is a popular activity in the summer months.
  • The kayaker skillfully maneuvered through the white water, avoiding the large rocks.
whitewater

Similar to 'white water' but more commonly found in compound phrases. Often used in the context of outdoor sports and expeditions, emphasizing the adrenaline and adventure aspect.

  • The whitewater rafting guide provided safety instructions before we headed out.
  • They've been whitewater kayaking in various parts of the world.

Examples of usage

  • The rafting guide warned us about the rapids up ahead.
  • After heavy rainfall, the rapids became even more challenging to navigate.
Context #2 | Noun

geography

Rapids can also refer to a series of rocks or obstacles in a river or stream that cause the water to flow quickly and with turbulence. These rapids can create natural barriers to navigation for boats and canoes.

Synonyms

obstacles, rocks.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rapids

Rapids are commonly used to describe a section of a river where the water moves very quickly, often because of a steep descent or various rocks and boulders. They are popular in discussions about outdoor activities like kayaking, canoeing, or rafting.

  • We need to prepare well before navigating the rapids on the Colorado River.
  • The guide pointed out the challenging rapids ahead and instructed us on how to paddle through them.
obstacles

Obstacles are used to refer generally to things that block one's way or hinder progress. This word is versatile and can be applied to both physical objects and abstract challenges.

  • She faced many obstacles but never gave up on her dream.
  • The fallen tree created a major obstacle on the hiking path.
rocks

Rocks refer to solid mineral material and can be used in a variety of contexts, from geology to describing a specific feature in the landscape. They can also be an obstacle in different situations, such as climbing or boating.

  • The climbers carefully maneuvered around the large rocks on the mountain trail.
  • Watch out for those rocks in the water when you are swimming close to shore.

Examples of usage

  • The explorers had to carefully navigate the rapids to continue their journey down the river.
  • Avoid the rapids near that bend in the river, they can be treacherous.

Translations

Translations of the word "rapids" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rápidos

🇮🇳 तेज़ी से बहने वाली धारा

🇩🇪 Stromschnellen

🇮🇩 jeram

🇺🇦 пороги

🇵🇱 bystrza

🇯🇵 急流 (きゅうりゅう)

🇫🇷 rapides

🇪🇸 rápidos

🇹🇷 hızlı akıntılar

🇰🇷 급류 (geumnyu)

🇸🇦 المنحدرات

🇨🇿 peřeje

🇸🇰 pereje

🇨🇳 急流 (jílíu)

🇸🇮 brzice

🇮🇸 straumar

🇰🇿 тез ағымдар

🇬🇪 ჩქარი დინებები

🇦🇿 çaylar

🇲🇽 rápidos

Etymology

The word 'rapids' originated in the early 18th century from the obsolete verb 'rapid', which meant 'to seize' or 'to carry off'. It was first used in the context of fast-flowing water in the late 18th century, describing sections of rivers with swift currents. Rapids have been a natural feature of rivers for centuries, posing challenges and opportunities for travelers and adventurers alike.

See also: rapidity, rapidly.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,175, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.