1a competition between runners, horses, vehicles, etc. to see which is the fastest in covering a set course:Hill started from pole position and won the race
(the races) a series of races for horses or dogs, held at a fixed time on a set course.
[in singular] a situation in which individuals or groups compete to be first to achieve a particular objective:the race for nuclear power
archaic the course of the sun or moon through the heavens:the industrious sun already half his race hath run
2a strong or rapid current flowing through a narrow channel in the sea or a river:angling for tuna in turbulent tidal races
3a groove, channel, or passage, in particular:
a water channel, especially one built to lead water to or from a point where its energy is utilized, as in a mill or mine.
a smooth ring-shaped groove or guide in which a ball bearing or roller bearing runs.
a fenced passageway in a stockyard through which animals pass singly for branding, loading, washing, etc..
(in weaving) the channel along which the shuttle moves.
ზმნა
Universal
1 [no object] compete with another or others to see who is fastest at covering a set course or achieving an objective:the vet took blood samples from the horses before they raced [with object]:two drivers raced each other through a housing estate
compete regularly in races as a sport or leisure activity:next year, he raced again for the team
[with object] prepare and enter (an animal or vehicle) for races:he raced his three horses simply for the fun of it
2 [no object, with adverbial] move or progress swiftly or at full speed:I raced into the house figurativeshe spoke automatically, while her mind raced ahead
operate or cause to operate at excessive speed: [no object]:the truck came to rest against a tree with its engine racing
[no object] (of a person’s heart or pulse) beat faster than usual because of fear or excitement.
be at the races (or Australian/NZin the race)
[usually with negative]British informal competing with a chance of success:they were never quite at the races against Rangerswith you dressed up, none of us others will be in the race
a race against time
a situation in which something must be done before a particular point in time:it was a race against time to reach shore before the dinghy sank
