raft

n. countable

B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɹæft// UK //ɹˈɑːft// raft

Archaic Slang Cooking

Definition

n. a large number or collection of something. You use it when you want to emphasize that there are many things to deal with at once.

n. a large amount or number of something, typically referring to a collection of items, ideas, or problems. Often implies a sudden or overwhelming accumulation.

SIMPLE

The company introduced a raft of new measures to save money.

CONTEXTUAL

The government is facing a raft of criticism following the release of the latest economic report.

COMPLEX

In response to the recent security breach, the IT department implemented a raft of protocols designed to fortify the network against future external threats.

Etymology 1

Late Middle English, of North Germanic origin, from West Old Norse raptr, from Proto-Germanic raf-tra-, from Proto-Indo-European rap-tro-, from *rep- (“stake, beam”). See also Norwegian raft (“beam, rafter”), Danish raft (“thin pole”). Compare also Albanian trap (“raft, ferry”).

Etymology 2

Alteration of raff.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Usage

Commonly used in the singular form with the preposition 'of' ('a raft of').

Last updated May 6, 2026