raft
UK: rɑːft | US: ræft
n. a flat structure made of logs or planks fastened together, used for floating on water
n. a large number or amount of something
vt. to transport or travel by raft
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The word "raft" traces back to Old Norse raptr ("log") and Old English ræft ("beam, rafter"). It originally referred to wooden beams or logs, later evolving to denote a floating platform made of such materials. Its core meaning has remained tied to wooden structures, with figurative extensions (e.g., "a raft of complaints") emerging in Modern English.
They built a sturdy raft to cross the river.
A raft of new regulations was introduced last year.
We rafted down the Colorado River during our vacation.
The survivors clung to the raft until rescue arrived.
The documentary highlighted a raft of environmental issues.