Reef: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿชธ
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reef

 

[ riหf ]

Noun
Nature
Context #1 | Noun

marine biology

A reef is a structure consisting of rock, coral, or other materials that provides habitat for diverse marine life. Reefs are typically found in shallow coastal waters and can play a critical role in the marine ecosystem by protecting coastlines, supporting biodiversity, and providing resources for fishing and tourism. Coral reefs, in particular, are among the most biologically diverse ecosystems on Earth and are often referred to as the 'rainforests of the sea.' However, they are under threat from climate change, pollution, and overfishing.

Synonyms

barrier, coral, ledge, rubble.

Examples of usage

  • The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system.
  • We went snorkeling at the reef and saw many colorful fish.
  • Coral reefs support a wide variety of marine species.
  • Reef conservation is crucial for maintaining biodiversity.

Translations

Translations of the word "reef" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น recife

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคฐเฅ€เคซ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Riff

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ terumbu

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ั€ะธั„

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ raf

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒชใƒผใƒ•

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท rรฉcif

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ arrecife

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท resif

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์‚ฐํ˜ธ์ดˆ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุญุงุฌุฒ ู…ุฑุฌุงู†ูŠ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ รบtes

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ รบtes

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ็ค

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ greben

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ rif

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ั€ะธั„

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ แƒ˜แƒคแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ rษ™f

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ arrecife

Etymology

The word 'reef' originates from the Middle English term 'ref,' which meant a 'bar' or 'cliff.' It traces back to the Old English 'ref,' meaning 'to conceal' or 'to hide,' a reflection of how reefs often rise above the seabed, providing shelter for marine organisms. Historically, the term referred broadly to any underwater obstacle or hazard, particularly those that could pose a danger to navigation. Over time, it came to specifically denote coral formations and rocky areas teeming with marine life. The significance of reefs has grown in modern times due to their ecological importance and the threats they face, leading to a greater emphasis on reef conservation and protection initiatives globally.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,596 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.