Rapids: meaning, definitions and examples
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rapids
[ ˈræpɪdz ]
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?
Word | Description / Examples |
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Examples of usage
- The rafting guide warned us about the rapids up ahead.
- After heavy rainfall, the rapids became even more challenging to navigate.
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
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
- ...
- 15172 globulin
- 15173 downright
- 15174 bounced
- 15175 rapids
- 15176 expiring
- 15177 divisional
- 15178 impairments
- ...