reef
word
/ˈɹif/
reef
/ɹˈiːf/
reef
Definition
A reef is a long line of rocks or coral just under or above the surface of the sea, often home to many sea creatures.
Usage & Nuances
Used mainly for marine geography; 'coral reef' is common for reefs formed by corals, like the Great Barrier Reef. Not used for river or lake formations. 'Reef' is sometimes confused with 'reef knot' (sailing) or 'reefing' a sail, but those are unrelated.
Spanish: arrecifePortuguese (BR): recifePortuguese (PT): recifeChinese (Simplified): 礁石 - 珊瑚礁Chinese (Traditional): 礁石 - 珊瑚礁Hindi: चट्टान (समुद्री)Arabic: شِعْبٌ مَرْجَانِيّBengali: রিফ - প্রবালপ্রাচীরRussian: риф - коралловый рифJapanese: リーフ - サンゴ礁Vietnamese: rạn san hô - rạn đáKorean: 암초 - 산호초Turkish: resif - mercan resifiUrdu: مرجان کی چٹان - ریفIndonesian: terumbu karang - karang
Example Sentences
We saw many fish swimming near the reef.
basic
A reef can be dangerous for boats.
basic
The Great Barrier Reef is very famous.
basic
Snorkeling over the reef was the highlight of my trip.
natural
Be careful—the boat could hit a reef if the water gets too shallow.
natural
There’s an amazing variety of life on this reef.
natural