Definition

Noun (plural) 1. A large number or amount; a great deal. This word is used informally to emphasize a very large quantity of something. It is often used with "of" to specify what there is a lot of.

Usage

• The word rafts is a plural noun. It is almost always used with the preposition "of" to form the phrase "rafts of [something]".
• It is primarily used in informal or conversational contexts to express a large, often impressive or overwhelming, quantity.
• It functions similarly to other informal quantifiers like "lots," "heaps," or "tons."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The company received rafts of applications for the open position.
  • She has rafts of energy and is always the first to volunteer.
  • After the announcement, there were rafts of questions from the audience.

Advanced Usage

• "Rafts of data/information": A common collocation in more formal or business contexts, referring to a large, complex set of information.
  • The researchers had to analyze rafts of data before reaching a conclusion.

Variants and Related Words

• Raft (noun): A flat structure, typically made of logs or inflatable material, for floating on water. This is the primary and literal meaning of the singular form "raft." The plural "rafts" can also refer to multiple such floating structures.
  • They built a raft to cross the river.
  • Several rafts floated down the calm stream.

Synonyms

• Lots
• Heaps
• Tons
• Stacks
• Piles
• A great deal
• A large amount

Notes on Meaning

The word rafts has two distinct meanings: 1. (Informal, plural noun): A large number or amount (as defined above). 2. (Standard, plural noun): Multiple flat floating structures, which is the plural of the noun raft. The intended meaning is usually clear from the context. If followed by "of," it almost certainly means a large quantity (e.g., rafts of paper). If not, it likely refers to the floating objects (e.g., The rafts were tied to the dock).

Noun

1. a large number or amount
   • made lots of new friends
   • she amassed stacks of newspapers