rafter

1 of 2

noun (1)

raf·​ter ˈraf-tər 

: any of the parallel beams that support a roof

raftered

ˈraf-tərd 

adjective

rafter

2 of 2

noun (2)

raft·​er ˈraf-tər 

1

: one who maneuvers logs into position and binds them into rafts

2

: one who travels by raft

Examples of rafter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The Coast Guard pulled the rafters aboard — they were saved, and presumed their rescuers would swiftly deliver them to Florida. —Miriam Pensack, The Dial, 30 Sep. 2025

And finally, Jessica Vosk’s Jersey dazzled, her vocals soaring into the rafters like a declaration of freedom. —Larry Stansbury, Essence, 29 Sep. 2025

Each section offers its own appeal—from calm waters ideal for fishing to rapids that draw rafters and kayakers from around the region. —Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 27 Sep. 2025

It’s divided into two sections, the Upper Gauley being the most intense (rafters have to have some whitewater experience and be at least 16 years old), while the Lower Gauley is a slightly more tame (12 miles of class III-V open to all boaters 12 and up). —Graham Averill, Outside, 26 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Middle English, from Old English ræfter; akin to Old Norse raptr rafter

Noun (2)

raft entry 2

First Known Use

Noun (1)

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1741, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rafter

• after
• drafter
• laughter
• hereafter
• thereafter
• hereinafter
• thereinafter

Kids Definition

rafter

noun

raf·​ter

ˈraf-tər

: one of the usually sloping timbers that support a roof

raftered

-tərd

adjective