# raked

/ˈɹeɪkt/ (US) · /ɹˈeɪkt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/raked
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

to move something with a long tool that has teeth, like a rake, to make it flat or to gather it up. You also use this when you move your fingers through your hair to make it look messy.

For teachers: to move a long tool with teeth through a surface to level it or gather material; to move fingers through hair to create a disheveled appearance. Transitive — requires a direct object.

## Examples

- He raked the leaves into a pile in the garden.
- The gardener spent the morning raked the dry soil to prepare it for the new spring planting.
- After the intense debate, the speaker raked his fingers through his disheveled hair, a gesture that suggested both frustration and a desire to appear more approachable to the audience.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.