Rapids
/ˈræpɪdz/
Definitions
A part of a river where the current is very fast due to a steep incline or obstruction.
/ˈræpɪdz/
A section of a river where the water flows very fast over rocks.
The boat capsized in the turbulent rapids.
💡 Simply: Rapids are like speed bumps in a river. The water goes extra fast and bumpy over rocks!
👶 For kids: When water in a river goes super fast and makes a bumpy ride because of rocks, it's called rapids!
More Examples
The adventurers braved the rapids in their canoes.
The river was known for its challenging rapids.
How It's Used
"The kayakers navigated through the dangerous rapids of the river."
"Whitewater rafting is a popular activity on rivers with rapids."
From Middle French *rapide* (swift, rapid), from Latin *rapidus* (rushing, swift), from *rapere* (to seize, snatch).
The term 'rapids' has been used in English since the 17th century, often to describe obstacles in waterways for navigation.
Memory tip
Imagine water rushing rapidly over rocks. That's rapids!
Word Origin
"swift, rushing"