DCHP-2

rapid(s) † (usually plural) [prob. < Cdn F rapide(s) < F rapide fast, rapid] DCHP-1 (pre-1967)

• n.

  See 1792 quote.

  See also: shoot ((n.)) (def. 1)  

  • 1770  (1792)  The rattles and rapids in the river are now broken up.
  • 1792  (1911)  The term "rapid" is meant to describe shallow water, strong currents and a rocky bottom, which causes the whole surface of the water to appear foaming and white, like breakers at sea.
  • 1829  Would they examine the rapids with care, and not the still sheets, the truth would be guessed much nearer.
  • 1965  On our 1964 trip, since the maps were fairly recent, only about half of the rapids were shown.