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Rapids: meaning, definitions and examples

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rapids

 

[ˈræpɪdz ]

Definitions

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.

Interesting Facts

Geography

  • Rapids occur in areas where the riverbed is steep or rocky, causing the water to speed up and create turbulence.
  • The speed of water in rapids can be affected by rain upstream or by the melting of snow, changing their intensity and flow.
  • Different types of rapids are classified by their characteristics, ranging from gentle flows to violent whitewater.

Adventure Sports

  • Whitewater rafting is a popular sport that uses rapids to create an exciting ride, drawing many adventurers seeking thrills.
  • Guides assess rapids using a classification system from Class I (easy) to Class VI (extreme), helping paddlers know what to expect.
  • Safety gear like helmets and life jackets is essential for anyone navigating rapids due to their unpredictable nature.

Ecology

  • Rapids can create unique habitats for various fish and aquatic plants that thrive in fast-moving water.
  • Certain species of fish, like salmon, depend on the energy of rapids for migration and spawning, illustrating their ecological importance.
  • The oxygen levels in rapids are often higher, supporting diverse ecosystems by providing a rich environment for life.

Cultural Significance

  • Many indigenous cultures view rapids as sacred places, often featuring them in their stories and traditions.
  • Rapids have been landmarks for exploratory journeys, serving as indicators of natural routes for early explorers and traders.
  • In literature, rapids often symbolize adventure, danger, and the unpredictable nature of life, resonating in various storytelling styles.

Conservation

  • Healthy rapids systems are crucial for maintaining biodiversity, supporting both aquatic and terrestrial life.
  • Dams and human activities can significantly alter the flow of rivers, impacting the natural state of rapids and their ecosystems.
  • Efforts to restore natural river flows often focus on rapids, as they play a pivotal role in the overall health of river systems.

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

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.