Draft

Definition

Draft is used as a noun, verb, and adjective. As a noun, it refers to a preliminary version of a document or plan, or an act of selecting individuals for a specific purpose, such as military service. As a verb, it means to prepare a preliminary version of something or to recruit individuals for a purpose. As an adjective, it describes something that is in a preliminary or rough state.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dræft/
• Respelling: DRAFT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /drɑːft/
• Respelling: DRAHFT

Etymology

The word "draft" originates from the Old English "dræft" and Old Norse "drátt," meaning "drawing, pulling." It was later influenced by Middle English "draught," referring to drawing or pulling something, evolving into modern meanings that include preliminary versions of documents or plans and conscription.

Derivatives

• Drafted (verb)
• Drafting (verb/noun)
• Draftsman (noun)
• Redraft (verb)
• Overdraft (noun)

Synonyms

• Outline
• Preliminary
• Conscription

Antonyms

• Final
• Complete
• Discharge

Usage

The term "draft" is frequently used in contexts requiring preliminary versions or selections, as in "He reviewed the draft of the report" or "She was drafted into the military." It conveys an initial, often unfinished, form.

Related Terms

• Blueprint: A detailed plan or drawing, especially for architecture or design.
• Manuscript: A handwritten or typed document, often unpublished.
• Selection: The act of choosing or picking individuals for a purpose.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A preliminary version of a document or plan: Refers to an initial or rough version, not yet finalized.
  • Example: "She read through the first draft of her novel."
• The act of conscription or selection for military service: Refers to the compulsory recruitment of individuals, particularly into the armed forces.
  • Example: "He received his draft notice during the war."

Verb

• To prepare a preliminary version of a document or plan: Refers to the act of creating an initial outline or version.
  • Example: "She is drafting a letter to the editor."
• To select individuals for a particular purpose, often military: Describes the act of recruiting or enlisting.
  • Example: "They were drafted into the army."

Adjective

• Relating to a preliminary or initial stage: Describes something in an early, incomplete state.
  • Example: "He reviewed the draft report before finalizing it."