rapids

/ˈræpɪdz/(american) · /ˈræpɪdz/(british)

rap-ids · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    [geography]A part of a river where the water flows very fast, usually over rocks, creating turbulent and dangerous conditions for boats.

  2. 2.

    A section of a river with a fast current and broken water.

Forms

plural: rapids

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    shoot the rapids — To navigate through rapids in a boat or raft.
  • •
    white water rapids — Rapids with particularly turbulent, foaming water.

Related words

Antonyms: calm water, still water
See also: current, rapid, river, waterfall, whitewater
Synonyms: fast water, white water, whitewater

Etymology

From Latin rapidus meaning "swift, rapid", from rapere ("to seize, carry off"). The term entered English in the 17th century to describe swift-flowing sections of rivers, particularly in North American contexts where European explorers encountered such waterways.