rack
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for rack, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A framework or set of shelves, bars, or hooks used for holding, storing, or displaying things.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use rack
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle English rakke/rekke, related to Middle Dutch words for a framework, going back to a root meaning "to stretch out".
Full origin of rack →Frequently asked questions
What does “rack” mean?
The word “rack” means a framework or set of shelves, bars, or hooks used for holding, storing, or displaying things. In plain terms, a frame for holding or storing things, or (as a verb) to strain or pile something up.
How do you pronounce “rack”?
“Rack” is pronounced rak (/ɹæk/ in IPA).
How do you use “rack” in a sentence?
Here is “rack” used in a sentence: “She hung her coat on the rack by the door.”
What part of speech is “rack”?
Depending on how it is used, “rack” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “rack” come from?
The word “rack” comes from Middle English. From Middle English rakke/rekke, related to Middle Dutch words for a framework, going back to a root meaning "to stretch out".
Is “rack” a common word?
“Rack” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “rack” have?
“Rack” has 6 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a framework or set of shelves, bars, or hooks used for holding, storing, or displaying things.
What is the difference between a rack and a shelf?
A shelf is a single flat surface for holding things, whereas a rack is a framework of bars, hooks, or several shelves used to hold, store, or display items. A rack is usually more open and often built for a specific purpose, such as a coat rack or a wine rack.
What is a 'rack and pinion'?
A rack and pinion is a mechanism in which a toothed bar (the rack) meshes with a round gear (the pinion) to turn rotary motion into straight-line motion. It is widely used in car steering, converting the turn of the wheel into side-to-side movement.
Is it 'rack your brains' or 'wrack your brains'?
The traditional spelling is 'rack your brains,' using 'rack' in the sense of the old stretching device to suggest straining hard to think. 'Wrack' is a common variant, but many style guides still prefer 'rack' for this expression.