DCHP-1 Online
rift † [? < riff, obs.var. of reef] Obs. 
n. [Edit specific label] an obstruction in a watercourse, as a shallows, rapids, or sandbar.
See also: riffle ((n.)) (def. 1a)
- 1760 The navigation is very troublesome, on account of the many rifts and portages or carrying places.
- 1927 (1829) These rifts, as they are called, otherwise small ripples, continue about a mile.
- 1760 The navigation is very troublesome, on account of the many rifts and portages or carrying places.