nounπShareA chain or range of rocks, sand, or coral lying at or near the surface of the water."Divers explored the colorful reefs teeming with fish just off the coast. "geographyoceanenvironmentnaturegeologybiologyChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
nounπShareA large vein of auriferous quartz; hence, any body of rock yielding valuable ore."The old miners believed the richest gold was hidden deep within the quartz reefs of the mountain. "geologymineralChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
nounπShareA portion of a sail rolled and tied down to lessen the area exposed in a high wind."During the sudden squall, the experienced sailor quickly tied in the reefs to reduce the sail area and maintain control of the boat. "nauticalsailingChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
nounπShareA reef knot."The sailor quickly tied the two ropes together with a pair of reefs. "nauticalsailingChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
verbπShareTo take in part of a sail in order to adapt the size of the sail to the force of the wind."The sailors had to reef the sails as the wind grew stronger, making the boat more stable. "nauticalsailingtechnicalChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
verbπShareTo pull or yank strongly, especially in relation to horse riding."The nervous rider reefs on the reins, trying to control the horse's sudden burst of speed. "animalsportactionChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
verbπShare(of paddles) To move the floats of a paddle wheel toward its center so that they will not dip so deeply."Reef the paddles."nauticalsailingtechnologymachineChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
nounπShareThe itch; any eruptive skin disorder."After working in the garden, she developed reefs on her arms from an allergic reaction to the plants. "medicinediseasebodyappearanceChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
nounπShareDandruff.""He brushed his dark jacket because it was covered in reefs after scratching his head." "bodyappearancemedicineChat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
