Rack

Definition

Rack can function as a noun meaning a framework of bars, hooks, or pegs on which objects are arranged or stored; as a verb, it means to place or arrange on such a framework, or to cause great physical or mental pain or strain.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (transitive)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ræk/
• Respelling: RAK

British English

• IPA: /ræk/
• Respelling: RAK

Etymology

Old English hrac “frame, rack,” from Proto-Germanic *hraką “rack, hurdle,” related to Old Norse hrak and German Rack.

Derivatives

• racked (verb past)
• racking (verb gerund/adjective)
• rackful (noun)
• rackable (adjective)

Synonyms

• (noun) stand, frame, shelf, bracket
• (verb) torment, torture, agonize, strain

Antonyms

• (noun) container, box
• (verb) relieve, comfort, free

Usage

Noun: The noun "rack" is used in storage, retail, and culinary contexts to denote a framework for holding items. For example, "She placed the plates on the drying rack," or "The bookstore displayed new novels on a front-window rack."

Verb: As a verb, "to rack" means to place on a rack or to cause severe pain or distress. For example, "He racked the firewood neatly by the hearth," or "She was racked with guilt after missing the deadline."

Related Terms

• Shelf: A flat horizontal surface for storage.
• Bracket: A support projecting from a wall.
• Torture rack: A medieval device for stretching the body.
• Stand: A support for displaying items.
• Agony: Intense physical or mental suffering.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A framework of bars, hooks, or pegs for holding or storing objects – often free-standing or mounted.
  • Example: "He hung his coats on the hallway rack."
• A device used historically for torture by stretching the body – the torture rack.
  • Example: "The prisoner was strapped to the rack in the dungeon."
• A set of bars from which items hang (e.g., bicycles, clothes) – used in retail or garages.
  • Example: "They stored their bikes on a wall-mounted rack."

Verb

• To place or arrange on a rack for storage or display – to organize items neatly.
  • Example: "She racked the wine bottles in the cellar."
• To cause severe physical or mental pain – to torment or afflict.
  • Example: "He was racked with remorse after the accident."
• To strain or distress (the body or mind) – to injure through overuse.
  • Example: "The heavy box racked his back."