ENGLISH
REFERENCE

row

n. · v.
US //ˈɹoʊ// row
  1. 1 a straight line (n.)
    A1 Beginner

    a line of people or things that are next to each other.

    a linear arrangement of people or objects, typically positioned side by side.

    Example

    We sat in the front row of the cinema to see the screen better.

    Example

    The gardener planted a neat row of lettuce alongside the tomatoes, ensuring each seedling had sufficient space to thrive.

    Usage

    In data tables, a row is horizontal, while a column is vertical.
  2. 2 a noisy argument (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate British English Informal

    a loud, angry argument between people.

    a noisy dispute or quarrel. Pronounced /raʊ/ to rhyme with 'now'.

    Example

    The neighbours had a huge row about the loud music last night.

    Example

    The couple had a bitter row over their holiday plans, which resulted in them not speaking for the rest of the weekend.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is primarily British; American speakers usually prefer 'fight' or 'argument'.
Show 3 more sensesShow fewer
  1. 3 to move a boat (v.)
    A2 Elementary Nautical

    to move a boat through water using long wooden poles called oars.

    to propel a watercraft by means of oars. Usually transitive when specifying the vessel.

    Example

    He had to row the small boat back to the shore when the motor stopped.

    Example

    The athletes rowed with perfect synchronicity, their blades cutting through the water with minimal splash as they neared the finish line.
  2. 4 to argue (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate British English Informal

    to have a loud or angry argument with someone.

    to engage in a noisy quarrel. Pronounced /raʊ/ to rhyme with 'now'.

    Example

    They are always rowing about who should do the dishes.

    Example

    The siblings frequently rowed over trivial matters, though they usually reconciled within an hour of the initial outburst.
  3. 5 pulling exercise (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

    an exercise where you pull weight toward your chest to strengthen your back.

    a strength-training movement involving the retraction of the scapulae and flexion of the elbows to pull resistance toward the torso.

    Example

    He added three sets of seated rows to his gym routine.

    Example

    The trainer emphasised the importance of maintaining a neutral spine while performing heavy barbell rows to avoid lower back strain.

Word family
Idioms9 entries

© 2026 English Reference