rake
word
Definition
A rake is a tool with a long handle and a row of teeth used for gathering leaves, grass, or smoothing soil in a garden. It can also be used as a verb meaning to collect things together by dragging the tool, or more figuratively, to search or move something roughly.
Usage & Nuances
Most often refers to the garden tool, especially with 'leaf rake' or 'garden rake.' As a verb, 'to rake leaves' means to gather fallen leaves. Figuratively, 'rake through' means to search quickly or messily. Rarely, 'rake' can also mean a dissolute man (very old-fashioned).
Example Sentences
She started to rake the soil before planting the flowers.
basic
Can you rake the leaves into a pile for me?
natural
He had to rake through his bag to find his keys.
natural
Every fall, my neighbors and I rake up huge piles of leaves together.
natural
I used a rake to clean up the leaves in the yard.
basic
Please bring the rake from the shed.
basic