First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1reef
noun \ˈrēf\
Definition of REEF
1
: a part of a sail taken in or let out in regulating size
2
: reduction in sail area by reefing
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Origin of REEF
Middle English riff, from Old Norse rif; probably akin to Old Norse rīfa to rend — more at rive
2reef
verb
Definition of REEF
transitive verb
1
: to reduce the area of (a sail) by rolling or folding a portion
2
: to lower or bring inboard (a spar) wholly or partially
intransitive verb
: to reduce a sail by taking in a reef
— reef·able \ˈrē-fə-bəl\ adjective
First Known Use of REEF
1667
3reef
noun
Definition of REEF
1
a : a chain of rocks or coral or a ridge of sand at or near the surface of water — compare atoll, barrier reef b : a hazardous obstruction
Origin of REEF
Dutch rif, from Middle Dutch, from Old Norse, literally rib; akin to Old English ribb rib — more at rib
First Known Use: 1584
REEF Defined for Kids
reef
noun \ˈrēf\
Definition of REEF for Kids
: a chain of rocks or coral or a ridge of sand at or near the surface of water
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