Skip to the word

Added 9 October 2026

raft

/ɹɑːft/ noun

In Latin: trabica, ratis Wiktionary

noun Definition from WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about raft at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

A flat float (usually made of logs or planks) that can be used for transport or as a platform for swimmers.
(often followed by `of') a large number or amount or extent.
a batch of letters
A foundation (usually on soft ground) consisting of an extended layer of reinforced concrete.

verb

Transport on a raft.
raft wood down a river
Travel by raft in water.
Raft the Colorado River
Make into a raft.
raft these logs

Origin

Late Middle English, of North Germanic origin, from West Old Norse raptr, from Proto-Germanic *raf-tra-, from Proto-Indo-European *rap-tro-, from *rep- (“stake, beam”). See also Norwegian raft (“beam, rafter”), Danish raft (“thin pole”). Compare also Albanian trap (“raft, ferry”).

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

Back to today's word