reef

noununderwater or partially submerged ledge

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Synonyms for reef

noun underwater or partially submerged ledge

More words related to reef

atoll

noun. island

bank

noun. ground bounding waters

island

noun. land surrounded by body of water

islands

noun. land surrounded by body of water

ledge

noun. shelf

lode

noun. deposit

Word Origin & History

"rock ridge underwater," 1580s, riffe, probably via Dutch riffe, from a Scandinavian source, cf. Old Norse rif "ridge in the sea; reef in a sail," literally "rib" (see rib (n.)).

Example Sentences for reef

He had himself been obliged to bail out three times, running in from the reef.

I said, standing on the steps like a captain ordering his men to take in a reef.

The reef must first be cleared, and then the ship shall be carried.

"This is a part of the reef, then, that is never covered," said he.

The Arabs of the ship called to those on the reef, and the latter answered.

The helm was attended to, and the boat drew slowly from the reef and ahead.

I might even sweep the reef, on an emergency, by using old iron for shot!

To clear the reef was nothing; but to carry the ship was a serious affair.

I fear that the day will dawn and find us still within the reef.

Paul then signed to the raft and to the reef, as much as to tell the other to withdraw his party.