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Definition of raft

 (Entry 1 of 3)

Definition of raft  (Entry 2 of 3)

transitive verb

intransitive verb

Definition of raft  (Entry 3 of 3)

  • lashings [ chiefly British ]
  • lashins
  • multiplicity

Examples of raft in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'raft.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English rafte rafter, raft, from Old Norse raptr rafter

alteration of raff jumble

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

1667, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

1821, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing raft

Articles related to raft.

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Cite this entry.

“Raft.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/raft. Accessed 10 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of raft.

Kids Definition of raft  (Entry 2 of 3)

Kids Definition of raft  (Entry 3 of 3)

Middle English rafte "rafter, raft"; of Norse origin

probably an altered form of earlier raff "jumble"

More from Merriam-Webster on raft

Nglish: Translation of raft for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of raft for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about raft

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50 Collective Nouns for Groups of Animals

By erika berlin | jun 8, 2023, 1:48 pm edt.

WLDavies/iStock

You know which animals move in packs, schools, and herds, but what about a wake, a business, or a flamboyance?

1. A CACKLE OF HYENAS

A group of hyenas on a rock.

While clan is the much more accepted term, there's something very appropriate about cackle. And though their laughs and giggles sound entertaining, they're really how spotted hyenas express anger, frustration, and warnings to stay away.

2. A SHREWDNESS OF APES

Group of chimps in a tree.

This term has around since the late 1400s—at the time, shrewdness referred to the mischievous nature of apes, though knowing now how intelligent they are, the term still works.

3. A RAFT OF OTTERS

Otters floating in the water in a large group.

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, many aquatic animals, such as ducks or puffins, also form rafts .

4. A MURDER OF CROWS

Silhouette of crows at night.

In the 15th century, crows were considered to be omens of death and messengers from the devil or evil powers.

5. A SCURRY OF SQUIRRELS

Squirrels lined up on a log.

Scurries are fairly unusual since squirrels are not pack animals by nature, so the more commonly used dray refers to a nest consisting of a mother squirrel and her young.

More Articles About Animals:

6. A WAKE OF VULTURES

Buzzards and vultures coming over to a carcass.

For vultures, a wake specifically refers to a group feeding on a carcass. The less morbid terms kettle and committee are reserved for groups that are flying and resting in trees, respectively.

7. A BATTERY OF BARRACUDAS

A battery of barracuda swimming.

Just one barracuda is intimidating, but a battery of them? Time to retreat!

8. A MUSTER OF STORKS

A muster of storks in a flower field.

A muster can also be used for groups of peacocks/peafowl (though an ostentation of peacocks is much more illustrative).

9. A WALK OF SNAILS

Group of snails.

Considering walk is one of the things a snail cannot do, this seems like an unusual choice. Perhaps the lesser-known (but still accepted) escargatoire would be more accurate.

10. A PARLIAMENT OF OWLS

A group of owls on a branch.

It's unclear when this phrase was invented, with examples dating to the late 19th century. But its origin is likely an allusion to Chaucer's poem "The Parliament of Fowls," alongside the use of parliament as a collective noun for rooks.

11. AN AMBUSH OF TIGERS

Three Bengal tigers walking along a path.

Since tigers tend to be solitary creatures, a grouping of them would certainly feel like an ambush.

12. A COTERIE OF PRAIRIE DOGS

Prairie dogs standing on a mound.

While full towns of prairie dogs are called colonies, the close-knit, individual family units are called coteries.

13. A MUTATION OF THRUSH

Thrush birds in a nest.

An ancient and medieval belief that thrushes shed and regrew their legs each decade led to the collective term of a mutation of thrush.

14. A MEMORY OF ELEPHANTS

A herd of elephants with a couple of babies in front.

Sure, a herd of elephants is the more common collective, but a memory is also a recognized term. We're not sure why a pack of pachyderms didn't catch on though …

15. A SKULK OF FOXES

Four little red foxes in a grassy field.

This term likely came about because mother foxes raise their young while burrowed underground.

16. A SCOLD OF JAYS

Jays sitting on a ledge.

Jays also hang in bands and parties .

17. A COVEY OF QUAIL

Quail in the grass.

While they can also group as a flock or a bevy, a covey of quail sounds much more poetic.

18. A HOVER OF TROUT

Trout in the water.

Since trout tend to swim in groups near the bottom of a lake or river, they likely look like they're hovering over the bed of the waterway. Alternately, it may come from an old term for an overhanging rock where fish—like trout—can hide.

19. A BALE OF TURTLES

Group of turtles in the water.

Supposedly, a group of turtles who are cozy in their shells would look like a field of round or squarish hay bales.

20. A RHUMBA OF RATTLESNAKES

Couple of rattlesnakes.

Because, perhaps under circumstances that didn't involve a large number of snakes, that many rattles in one place would make you want to dance.

21. A CHARM OF HUMMINGBIRDS

Hummingbirds flitting around a feeder.

If just one hummingbird is charming, can you imagine how charming a whole group of them would be?

22. A BUSINESS OF FERRETS

A basket of ferrets.

The Book of Saint Albans gave ferrets the collective term busyness ("besynes"), which today has become "business."

23. A STUBBORNNESS OF RHINOCEROSES

Rhinoceroses drinking water.

They can collectively be called a crash of rhinos as well.

24. A PRICKLE OF PORCUPINES

Porcupines eating some food.

Could this term be any more apt?

25. AN IMPLAUSIBILITY OF GNUS

Gnus and wildebeests jumping into the water.

26. AN UNKINDNESS OF RAVENS

Silhouette of ravens in a tree.

Ravens aren't exactly friendly fowl. They will often gang up on their prey or animals that enter their space. And because of the impression that they are an ominous presence, an unkindness of ravens can also be called a conspiracy .

27. A HAREM OF SEALS

A large group of seals.

Specifically, when you have a group of females with a dominant male, it's a harem . If it's just some breeding seals hanging out, it's a rookery .

28. A MOB OF KANGAROOS

Kangaroos in a field.

And just like in human mobs, there's usually a leader (a "boomer," or adult male) who is only in power for a short while before being challenged and defeated by a rival boomer.

29. A GAM OF WHALES

Group of whales swimming in the ocean.

Gam is a possible derivative of the word "gammon," meaning talk intended to deceive. Considering scientists have only just recently begun thinking they could decipher whale calls, we'd say the gam's gammon is pretty effective.

30. A POD OF PELICANS

Pelicans swimming on the water.

They can also be called a squadron.

31. A GENERATION OF VIPERS

Two vipers hiding in the leaves.

A group of snakes is generally a pit, nest, or den, but they're generally thought of as solitary creatures, so collective nouns for specific types of snakes are more fanciful. A "generation of vipers" likely originates from the King James translation of the Bible, in which Matthew 23:33 reads "Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?"

32. A DESCENT OF WOODPECKERS

Three woodpeckers in a tree.

Woodpeckers are far more known for their wood-pecking style of foraging for food, but another method some have is to quickly dive-bomb anthills and termite mounds.

33. A RUN OF SALMON

Salmon swimming upstream.

A salmon run isn't just the mass migration of salmon up the river—a run of salmon is also the name of a grouping of the fish.

34. A KALEIDOSCOPE OF BUTTERFLIES

One blue butterfly with a lot of orange butterflies.

Groups of butterflies can also be called flutters .

35. A WISDOM OF WOMBATS

Couple of wombats in a field.

Wombats have large brains and are incredibly playful, which is often viewed as a sign of intelligence.

36. A ROUT OF WOLVES

Large pack of wolves.

While pack is definitely the better-known term today, a very old term for wolves is rout , a word that ultimately came from the Middle French for company.

37. A SHIVER OF SHARKS

Group of hammerhead sharks in the ocean.

The term shiver applies a bit more to nervous humans when they see a large group of sharks, which is perhaps why the term has caught on in recent years.

38. A SCOURGE OF MOSQUITOES

Mosquitos flying against a yellow light.

They're more commonly called a swarm, but a scourge sounds just as accurate.

39. A SLEUTH OF BEARS

Four bears climbing a tree.

This isn't a reference to any detective work bears may or may not do—it's derived from the Old English word for sloth , meaning slow (and sloth itself is sometimes used as a collective noun as well). 

40. A GAZE OF RACCOONS

Three raccoons in a tree hole.

The males are called boars and the females sows.

41. A SIEGE OF HERONS

Herons standing in a field.

When herons pick a new lake or river to rest at, the fish there would certainly feel under siege.

42. A FLAMBOYANCE OF FLAMINGOS

Flamingos flying and standing in the water.

Kudos to the creator of this perfect term.

43. A DESTRUCTION OF CATS

Black and white cats hanging out along a street.

A destruction refers specifically to a group of wild or feral cats. A group of domesticated cats is a clowder .

44. A FEVER OF STINGRAYS

Stingrays swimming under the water.

At the very least, swimming with a fever of stingrays would surely cause your blood pressure to rise.

45. A SKEIN OF GEESE

Geese looking at the camera.

A skein is used specifically when geese (or other wild birds) are flying, while the alliterative gaggle is the term for grounded or domestic geese.

46. A BUNCH OF WORMS

Pile of worms in the dirt.

Not terribly creative, but when in doubt, just say "a bunch" of whatever.

47. AN EXALTATION OF LARKS

Larks flying across a field.

An exaltation of larks also dates back to the 15th century Book of Saint Albans (which, because of its heraldry section, also happened to be the first book in England to be printed in color).

48. A FAMILY OF SARDINES

Sardines swimming in a large group.

There are more than a dozen fish who can be labeled "sardine" in the supermarket. So in this case, family means a large grouping, rather than parents and children.

49. A BARREL OF MONKEYS

A group of monkeys gathering around a banana.

Not just a game—it's a real term. Monkeys can also congregate as a carload, troop, or tribe.

50. A DAZZLE OF ZEBRAS

Zebras grazing in a field.

They're more commonly called a herd, but a zeal or dazzle of zebras has such a nice ring to it.

A raft of otters.

To remember the collective noun for otters, use the following mnemonic:

After hijacking his raft , the otters took it miles downriver to where they planned to make their new home.

After hijacking his raft, the otters took it miles downriver to where they planned to make their new home.

Examples of raft in sentences:

The raft of otters lived in the river.

A raft of otters enjoyed eating fruit.

The entire raft of otters were all excellent swimmers. 

raft noun examples

"raft" Meaning

"raft" example sentences.

raft noun examples

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raft noun 1

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What does the noun raft mean?

There are 13 meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun raft . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

raft has developed meanings and uses in subjects including

How common is the noun raft ?

How is the noun raft pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun raft come from.

Earliest known use

Middle English

The earliest known use of the noun raft is in the Middle English period (1150—1500).

OED's earliest evidence for raft is from around 1330, in Reinbrun .

raft is a borrowing from early Scandinavian.

Nearby entries

  • raffling, n.² 1768–
  • raffling shop, n. 1691–
  • raffman, n. 1391–
  • raff merchant, n. a1642–
  • raff ware, n. 1440
  • raffy, adj. 1825–
  • raff yard, n. 1680–
  • Rafi, n. 1965–
  • rafiole, n. a1425–
  • rafiq, n. 1783–
  • raft, n.¹ c1330–
  • raft, n.² 1821–
  • raft, v.¹ 1664–
  • raft, v.² 1844–
  • raftage, n. 1635–
  • raft-breasted, adj. 1890–
  • raft bridge, n. 1733–
  • raft-chain, n. 1823–67
  • raft-deck, n. 1885–86
  • raft-dog, n. 1846–
  • raft duck, n. 1824–

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Meaning & use

Pronunciation, compounds & derived words, entry history for raft, n.¹.

raft, n.¹ was revised in June 2008.

raft, n.¹ was last modified in March 2024.

oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:

  • further revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
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Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into raft, n.¹ in March 2024.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

OED First Edition (1903)

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Definition of 'raft'

IPA Pronunciation Guide

raft in American English 1

Raft in american english 2, raft in british english 1, raft in british english 2, examples of 'raft' in a sentence raft, related word partners raft, trends of raft.

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  • Meaning of raft

raft ( English)

Pronunciation.

  • ( Brit. Eng. ) IPA: /ɹɑːft/
  • ( Amer. Eng. ) IPA: /ɹæft/
  • Rhymes: -ɑːft

Origin & history I

  • A flat structure made of planks , barrels etc., that floats on water , and is used for transport , emergencies or a platform for swimmers .
  • A flat-bottomed inflatable craft for floating or drifting on water.
  • A thick crowd of seabirds or sea mammals .
  • ( US ) A collection of logs, fallen trees, etc. which obstructs navigation in a river .

▾  Related words & phrases

  • whitewater rafting

Origin & history III

  • Simple past tense and past participle of reave
  • traf , TRAF

raft ( Albanian)

Origin & history, raft ( czech).

  • IPA: /raft/
  • raft (inflatable floating craft)

Automatically generated practical examples in English:

In August a man and his niece, 13, and nephew, 12, were injured in a raft flume accident at Center Parcs in Longleat. Center Parcs say 23 rafts have flipped in the last six months. Mail Online, 8 October 2019

Man and two children hurt in incident in August on ride at site in Longleat, Wiltshire An investigation is taking place after a raft on a Center Parcs ride flipped over, injuring a man and two children. The Guardian, 8 October 2019

A raft of measures have been put in place to reduce the amount of ethane Shell is being forced to flare. BBC News, 9 November 2019

▾  Further examples

A raft of economic reforms fails to quell protesters, who continue to demonstrate demanding government's resignation. Al Jazeera, 21 October 2019

Change is coming to the W-League as league chiefs consider a raft of reforms aimed at bolstering Australia’s women’s domestic competition and the Matildas. news.com.au, 17 October 2019

South Australia is imposing a raft of new COVID-19 restrictions from midnight, as the state battles an outbreak of the virus. news.com.au, 16 November 2020

The past 48 hours have seen a raft of conflicting statistics suggesting there are somewhere between 34,000 and 96,000 people getting infected with coronavirus each day in England. Mail Online, 30 October 2020

A rubber raft crowded with at least 120 migrants sank in the Mediterranean Sea on Thursday. The craft was on a notoriously dangerous route for refugees trying to reach European shores. The New York Times, 13 November 2020

A raft of new measures and restrictions have been put in place across Spain. Here's what you need to know about the latest restrictions in each region. The Local, 9 November 2020

A raft of European nations including Italy and Belgium took urgent new measures on Monday to combat a second wave of coronavirus infections as the worldwide caseload topped 40 million. World News SBS, 19 October 2020

▾  Dictionary entries

Entries where "raft" occurs:

vlot : …boat; raft; cream"), Danish flåde ("raft"), Swedish flotte ("raft"). Noun vlot (neut.) (pl. vloten, diminutive vlotje) raft Origin & history III See the etymology of the main entry Verb vlot Verb form of vlotten Verb form…

rafty : …musty (rare, obsolete) bad-mannered Anagrams trayf rafty (Czech) Pronunciation IPA: /raftɪ/ Noun rafty Inflection of raft (nominative plural) Inflection of raft (accusative plural) Inflection of raft (vocative plural) Inflection of raft…

楂 : see also 查‎ 楂 (Translingual) Han character 楂 (radical 75 木+09, 13 strokes, cangjie input DDAM, four-corner 44916, composition ⿰木查) wood raft hawthorn may tree 楂 (Chinese) trad. and simpl. 楂 Glyph origin Pronunciation Mandarin:…

raft-up : raft -up (English) Noun raft-up (pl. raft-ups) nautical - The roping together of a number of small vessels to form a raft-like structure A social gathering based upon such a structure

แพ : …*ɓəj‎ ("bamboo raft "). Noun แพ raft: collection of logs, planks, casks, etc, fastened together for floating on water; floating platform made of buoyant materials; floating mass. collection of things fastened together like a raft…

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Cite this page : "raft" – WordSense Online Dictionary (10th May, 2024) URL: https://www.wordsense.eu/raft/

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raft dog (English)

raft dogs (English)

raft duck (English)

raft ducks (English)

raft port (English)

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progom , fásach (Irish)

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Meaning of raft in English

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raft noun ( FLOATING STRUCTURE )

  • cabin cruiser
  • dragon boat
  • rubber dinghy

raft noun ( MANY )

  • accumulation
  • any number of things idiom
  • hyper-concentration
  • the lion's share idiom
  • wave after/upon wave idiom
  • age of sail
  • ocean-going
  • under sail idiom

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

raft | Intermediate English

Raft noun [c] ( floating structure ), raft noun [c] ( a lot ), raft | business english, examples of raft, collocations with raft.

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[5] Fascinating Collective Noun Examples: Exploring the World of Rafters

A rafter is not only a common architectural feature but also has an intriguing association as a collective noun. In the context of birds, a "rafter" refers to a group of big, majestic birds—turkeys specifically. These regal, wild creatures are known for their distinctive gobbling calls that reverberate through forests, meadows, and rolling hills. The term "rafter" imaginatively encapsulates the intriguing image of a flock of turkeys clustered together, their robust bodies displaying an array of earthy hues.

At a glance, a rafter parades an assemblage of turkeys flaunting their extravagant plumage and displaying an air of confidence. From the calm, deliberate strut of the males, aptly termed gobblers, to the compact, protective demeanor of the hens, a rafter projects a sense of solidarity and cooperative unity. With feathers of iridescent greens, browns, and coppery hues glistening under the golden sun, this collective of turkeys exemplifies the grandeur of the natural world.

Witnessing a rafter in full effect is a spectacle to behold. As a close-knit community, these avian beings exhibit overtones of power, purpose, and communication. Absolute harmony seems to prevail among them, as they forage for sustenance, roost on trees, or engage together in elaborate mating rituals characterized by intricate choreography and magnificent displays of plumage. The vibrant energy of a rafter encapsulates the essence of communal living, exemplifying the proverb "strength in numbers."

A rafter reminds us of the intricate web of connections found in nature, where collaboration and unity often seem intrinsic. Witnessing such a gathering can ignite a sense of wonder, offering an opportunity to marvel at nature's symphony, a tapestry woven together to create harmonious ensemble performances. Whether taking flight together or engaging in raucous dialogue amidst their forest domain, a rafter is an emblem for the majestic beauty and awe-inspiring capabilities found within the winged communities that inhabit our planet.

Rafter Of Crows

A rafter of crows is a captivating collective noun phrase used to describe a group of crows gathered together. It conjures up an image of these intelligent and sleek birds perched on branches, rooftops, or wires. The term rafter typically refers to a fr...

"As the sun began to set, a large rafter of crows descended upon the old oak tree, their black forms stark against the fading light."

Rafter Of Fowls

A rafter of fowls is a poetic and uncommon collective noun phrase likely inspired by the collective behavior of certain bird species. Primarily used in literary and poetic settings, it refers to a group of fowls or domesticated birds such as chickens, tur...

"As I strolled through the old barnyard, a rafter of fowls strutted and pecked the ground around me."

Rafter Of Grackles

A rafter of grackles refers to a group of grackles gathered together, showcasing their collective behavior and social nature. The term rafter comes from the rhyme and rhythm of grackles as they settle on structures or congregate within trees, creating lin...

"A raucous rafter of grackles settled on the power lines, filling the air with their harmonious vocalization."

Rafter Of Puffins

A rafter of puffins refers to a grouping or flock of these adorable seabirds. With their distinct black and white coloration, comical appearance, and vibrant beaks, puffins are highly recognizable and beloved residents of coastal cliffs and islands. When ...

"As the sun began to set over the rocky cliffs, a rafter of puffins gathered on the narrow ledges, their vibrant beaks standing out against the twilight sky."

Rafter of Turkeys

A rafter of turkeys refers to a group or congregation of turkeys that are typically found together, often interacting and moving as a unit. This collective noun phrase, which specifically describes a gathering or flock of turkeys, is rooted in the unique ...

"As we walked through the autumn forest, we were surprised to come across a rafter of turkeys strutting in the clearing."

Some of these collective noun phrases are traditional, while others showcase a touch of creativity. Choose the one that best fits your narrative or discussion.

🎉Congratulations! You've Unlocked All 5 Collective Nouns examples for Rafter!

Our ability to feel, act and communicate is indistinguishable from magic. Your curiosity and passion for language have led you through a fascinating journey. We hope you enjoyed exploring these unique and intriguing collective nouns!

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raft noun examples

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To Raft vs Rafting Infinitives & Gerunds

Notes from a Native English Speaker

Infinitives: An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by the word "to" (e.g., to swim, to eat, to learn). It can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb in a sentence. Infinitives are often used to express intentions, purposes, desires, or potential actions. Gerunds: A gerund is the -ing form of a verb (e.g., swimming, eating, learning). It’s different from a “present participle” which functions as a verb tense. A gerund can be the subject, object, or complement of a sentence.

When and How to Use Each Expression?

To raft (Infinitive)

Purpose or Intention : Use the infinitive "to raft" when you want to express a purpose, intention, desire, or potential action

I want to raft down the river for an adventurous experience.

Rafting (Gerund)

Activity or Experience : Use the gerund "rafting" when you want to refer to the activity itself or the experience as a noun.

Rafting is an exhilarating outdoor activity.

Where can infinitives/gerunds be placed in a sentence?

To raft requires strength and skill.

  • "*To raft*" serves as the subject of the sentence.
  • Infinitive phrase (subject) + verb (requires) + noun phrase (strength and skill).

She wants me to raft with her in the rapids.

  • "Me *to raft* with her in the rapids" is the object of the verb "wants."
  • Noun (She) + verb (wants) + noun phrase (me *to raft* with her in the rapids).

We need a sturdy boat to raft safely.

  • "*To raft* safely" modifies the noun "boat."
  • Noun (We) + verb (need) + noun phrase (a sturdy boat *to raft* safely).

Rafting requires teamwork and coordination.

  • "*Rafting*" is the subject of the sentence.
  • Gerund (subject) + verb (requires) + noun phrase (teamwork and coordination).

I enjoy rafting in fast-flowing rivers.

  • "*Rafting* in fast-flowing rivers" is the object of the verb "enjoy."
  • Noun (I) + verb (enjoy) + gerund (*rafting* in fast-flowing rivers).

They have a fear of rafting in turbulent waters.

  • "Of *rafting* in turbulent waters" is the object of the preposition "of."
  • Noun phrase (They) + verb (have) + noun phrase (a fear of *rafting* in turbulent waters).

Verbs Taking Infinitives/Gerunds as Objects

Verbs Taking Infinitives as Objects

They plan to raft in the whitewater next weekend.

He hopes to raft in the Grand Canyon someday.

We decided to raft down the Amazon River for our adventure trip.

She wants to raft through the challenging rapids.

He refused to raft in the dangerous conditions.

Verbs Taking Gerunds as Objects

We enjoy rafting in the white-water rapids every summer.

Experts recommend wearing a helmet while rafting for safety.

She avoids rafting in rivers with strong currents.

Can you imagine yourself rafting down a waterfall?

They are considering rafting in the wild river as part of their vacation plans.

Verbs Taking Both Infinitives and Gerunds as Objects

He likes to raft in calm waters. He likes rafting in calm waters.

We started to raft as a family activity. We started rafting as a family activity.

She began to raft professionally. She began rafting professionally.

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The Collective Nouns

What is the Collective Noun for Coots?

The collective noun for coots is a cover. Flock, raft, and team are the other group names for coots.

What is a group of Coots called?

A group of coots is called a cover. Besides, based on different situations terms like flock, raft, and team are used to denote a group of coots.

A Cover of Coots

A cover of coots is used to describe a large group of coots, usually when they are swimming together in a large body of water.

Examples sentences:

  • The cover of coots floated across the lake.
  • The cover of coots was searching for food.
  • The cover of coots was swimming in unison.

A Flock of Coots

A flock of coots is used to describe a group of coots flying together in a large flock.

  • The flock of coots was soaring through the sky.
  • The flock of coots was searching for food.
  • The flock of coots was flying in formation.

A Raft of Coots

A raft of coots is used to describe a group of coots swimming together in a large raft.

  • The raft of coots was floating across the lake.
  • The raft of coots was searching for food.
  • The raft of coots was swimming in unison.

A Team of Coots

A team of coots is used to describe a group of coots working together to achieve a common goal.

  • The team of coots was searching for food.
  • The team of coots was building a nest.
  • The team of coots was determined to find food.

Interesting Facts About Coots:

  • Coots are members of the rail family.
  • Coots are found in freshwater wetlands around the world.
  • Coots are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and animals .
  • Coots have lobed toes which help them swim and walk on soft mud.
  • Coots are highly social birds and often form large flocks.
  • Coots are known to be aggressive and territorial.

Conclusion:

Coots may be small, but they are mighty! Their collective nouns of cover, flock, raft, and team are a testament to their strength in numbers.

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Definition of life raft noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

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raft noun examples

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  1. RAFT

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  2. 🔵 Raft Meaning

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  3. RAFT Writing

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  4. Raft Past Tense: Verb Forms, Conjugate RAFT

    raft noun examples

  5. Raft Past Tense: Verb Forms, Conjugate RAFT

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VIDEO

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  4. D-2, Noun: Definition, Kinds of Noun, Proper Noun, Examples, #noun #propernoun #asthakur #english

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COMMENTS

  1. raft noun

    Definition of raft noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. ... Extra Examples. They built a raft of logs. He was found floating on a raft. The raft floated away down the river. We paddled the raft to the shore.

  2. [38] The Roaming Raft: Exploring Collective Noun Examples that Echo

    A raft is a collective noun that refers to a group or collection of similar objects or organisms that are floating together on water. Often used to describe both inanimate and animate objects, the term "raft" highlights the unique sight of numerous items or creatures combining, displaying unity or protection, and similar behavior. There are ...

  3. Raft Definition & Meaning

    The meaning of RAFT is a flat structure (as of wood) for support or transportation on water; also : an inflatable flat-bottomed watercraft. ... Examples of raft in a Sentence. Recent Examples on the Web. Verb. ... Noun (1) Middle English rafte rafter, raft, from Old Norse raptr rafter . Noun (2)

  4. raft noun

    Definition of raft noun in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

  5. RAFT

    RAFT definition: 1. a flat floating structure for travelling across water, often made of pieces of wood tied roughly…. Learn more.

  6. Collective Nouns for Groups of Animals

    A RAFT OF OTTERS. Otters floating in the water in a large group. ... with examples dating to the late 19th century. ... meaning slow (and sloth itself is sometimes used as a collective noun as ...

  7. Raft

    R - Raft. A raft of otters.. To remember the collective noun for otters, use the following mnemonic: After hijacking his raft, the otters took it miles downriver to where they planned to make their new home.. Examples of raft in sentences: The raft of otters lived in the river.. A raft of otters enjoyed eating fruit.. The entire raft of otters were all excellent swimmers.

  8. raft (【Noun】a small, flat, floating platform ) Meaning, Usage, and

    "raft" Example Sentences. They were floating on a raft down the river. The raft ride down the river was absolutely stunning. ... Noun. the activity of travelling on a river using a small boat. 0. 0. 0. Presented by. Engoo is a service that offers lessons for those learning English. Although the lesson materials can be used for self study, they ...

  9. Raft Definition & Meaning

    2 raft / ˈ ræft/ Brit / ˈ rɑːft/ noun. plural rafts. Britannica Dictionary definition of RAFT. [count] : a large amount or number of people or things. a raft of political supporters. — compare 1 raft. RAFT meaning: 1 : a flat structure that is used for floating or sailing on water; 2 : a plastic or rubber boat that you have to fill with ...

  10. raft, n.¹ meanings, etymology and more

    The earliest known use of the noun raft is in the Middle English period (1150—1500). OED's earliest evidence for raft is from around 1330, in Reinbrun . raft is a borrowing from early Scandinavian.

  11. RAFT Writing Strategy

    RAFT Writing Assignment Examples. Example Writing Assignment #1. Role: You are a scientist studying the effects of pollution on marine life. Audience: The mayor of your city. Format: Letter. Topic: The importance of reducing pollution in our oceans. Instructions:

  12. Unleashing the Mighty: A Stunning Raft of Eagles Takes to the Skies

    A Raft Of Eagles. A Raft of Eagles is a vivid and evocative collective noun phrase that beautifully captures the awe-inspiring sight of a group of eagles assembled together. Eagles, known for their majestic and regal presence, are considered symbols of strength, power, and freedom. When gathered in a group, their collective stature becomes even more remarkable.

  13. Raft Definition & Meaning

    Raft definition: A flat structure, typically made of planks, logs, or barrels, that floats on water and is used for transport or as a platform for swimmers. ... Other Word Forms of Raft Noun Singular: raft. Plural: rafts. Origin of Raft From Scandinavian; compare West ... Examples of Romanticism in Literature, Art & Music

  14. RAFT definition in American English

    raft in American English. (ræft ; rɑft ) noun. 1. a flat, buoyant structure of logs, boards, barrels, etc. fastened together; specif., one used like a boat as in an emergency or in shallow water. 2. a similar structure anchored in a river or lake and used by divers, swimmers, etc. 3. a flat-bottomed, inflatable device, as of rubber, for ...

  15. raft

    From Longman Business Dictionary raft /rɑːftræft/ noun a raft of something a large number of things There has been a raft of new laws aimed at giving better protection to children in the past few years. Origin raft 1. (1200-1300) Old Norse raptr "large piece of wood, rafter" 2. (1800-1900) raff "mixture of things" ((17-19 centuries ...

  16. RAFT Definition & Meaning

    Raft definition: a more or less rigid floating platform made of buoyant material or materials. See examples of RAFT used in a sentence.

  17. rafting noun

    Definition of rafting noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. Toggle navigation. ... the sport or activity of travelling down a river on a raft. We went white-water rafting on the Colorado River. Topics Sports: water sports b2.

  18. RAFT Definition & Usage Examples

    Raft definition: a more or less rigid floating platform made of buoyant material or materials. See examples of RAFT used in a sentence.

  19. raft: meaning, translation

    Examples. Automatically generated practical examples in English: In August a man and his niece, 13, and nephew, ... Noun raft-up (pl. raft-ups) nautical - The roping together of a number of small vessels to form a raft-like structure A social gathering based upon such a structure.

  20. raft

    The meaning of raft. Definition of raft. Best online English dictionaries for children, with kid-friendly definitions, integrated thesaurus for kids, images, and animations. ... noun: definition 1: a flat platform made of materials that can float, such as wood or barrels filled with air. Rafts are often used to carry people or goods.

  21. RAFT

    RAFT meaning: 1. a flat floating structure for travelling across water, often made of pieces of wood tied roughly…. Learn more.

  22. [5] Fascinating Collective Noun Examples: Exploring the World of Rafters

    A rafter of crows is a captivating collective noun phrase used to describe a group of crows gathered together. It conjures up an image of these intelligent and sleek birds perched on branches, rooftops, or wires. The term rafter typically refers to a fr... Example sentence. "As the sun began to set, a large rafter of crows descended upon the ...

  23. to raft vs rafting

    Get a sense of when and how each expression can be used through the following examples! To raft (Infinitive) Purpose or Intention: Use the infinitive "to raft" when you want to express a purpose, intention, desire, or ... "*To raft* safely" modifies the noun "boat." Noun (We) + verb (need) + noun phrase (a sturdy boat *to raft* safely). Rafting ...

  24. What is the Collective Noun for Coots?

    A raft of coots is used to describe a group of coots swimming together in a large raft. Examples sentences: The raft of coots was floating across the lake. The raft of coots was searching for food. ... Coots may be small, but they are mighty! Their collective nouns of cover, flock, raft, and team are a testament to their strength in numbers ...

  25. life raft noun

    Definition of life raft noun in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.