What does "drafts" mean?

1. (preliminary writing) early versions of a piece of writing that are not yet finished. 2. (currents of air) cold air that blows through a room from a window or door. 3. (the board game) a game for two people played with round pieces on a board of black and white squares.

How do you use "drafts"?

Spelt 'draughts' in British English. Spelt 'checkers' in American English.

drafts

US //ˈdɹæfts// UK //dɹˈɑːfts// drafts

1 preliminary writing (n.)
B1 Intermediate

early versions of a piece of writing that are not yet finished.

preliminary versions of a text, such as an essay or a contract, intended for further revision.

Example

She wrote three drafts of her application letter before she was happy with it.

Example

The author meticulously archived all previous drafts of the manuscript, allowing researchers to trace the evolution of the protagonist's character arc.
- final versions
2 currents of air (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate American English

cold air that blows through a room from a window or door.

currents of cool air moving through an enclosed space, typically entering through gaps in windows or doors.

Example

The old house was full of cold drafts that made the curtains move.

Example

The architect recommended installing double-glazed windows to eliminate the persistent drafts that plagued the north-facing library during the winter months.

Usage

Spelt 'draughts' in British English.
- breezes
- currents
3 the board game (n.)
B1 Intermediate British English

a game for two people played with round pieces on a board of black and white squares.

a strategy board game for two players involving diagonal moves of uniform game pieces and mandatory captures.

Example

My grandfather taught me how to play drafts on a rainy afternoon.

Example

While chess requires complex long-term strategy, drafts remains a popular introductory game for teaching children the fundamentals of tactical positioning.

Usage

Spelt 'checkers' in American English.
- checkers

Last updated June 20, 2026