Row Meaning
Row Definition & Usage
A linear arrangement of objects, people, or things placed one after another.
Examples
- "The children stood in a row waiting for the bus."
- "I put the books in a neat row on the shelf."
- "She placed the chairs in a row around the table for the meeting."
- "The cars were parked in a row outside the cinema."
- "The teacher asked the students to line up in a row for their photographs."
An argument, dispute, or quarrel, often involving strong feelings.
Examples
- "They had a huge row about the dinner arrangements."
- "My parents had a row last night over finances."
- "We don't want to cause a row at the party, so let's keep things calm."
- "The neighbors were involved in a row about the loud music."
- "He had a row with his colleague over the new project guidelines."
To propel a boat forward using oars.
Examples
- "They rowed down the river at sunset."
- "He loves to row on the lake during the summer mornings."
- "We took a small boat out and rowed across the bay."
- "The crew members rowed in perfect synchrony during the race."
- "She rowed to the island to escape the storm."
Cultural Context
The word 'row' has its origins in the Latin word 'rota', which referred to circular movement, eventually evolving into its modern meanings. Over time, 'row' has come to represent both a physical line of objects and a figurative line of argument or dispute. In British English, the word is commonly used to describe a heated argument, while in American English, 'fight' or 'argument' is preferred.
The Row on the River
Story
The Row on the River
It was a summer afternoon when the group of friends gathered at the edge of the river. They had been planning this day for weeks, eager to take their new boat out for a spin. Amy, the most experienced rower of the bunch, was determined to teach the others how to row properly. But not everyone was eager to listen. Tom, ever the skeptic, didn't think they would make it across the river at all. "You can't seriously expect me to row, Amy. I don't even know where to start!" Tom protested as he climbed into the boat. Amy grinned and positioned the oars. "It's simple, just follow my lead. Now, row together!" They rowed in silence at first, the rhythmic strokes of their oars gliding them across the still waters. But soon enough, Tom's lack of coordination became apparent. The boat veered off course, and the others had to work extra hard to steer it back on track. "Come on, Tom! You're messing up the row!" Jane snapped, frustrated. "I’m not messing up! This is hard!" Tom argued, starting a row (the British kind) in the boat. The tension between them built, and for a moment, it seemed like the whole trip would be ruined. But as they continued to row, they found their rhythm, and the argument faded away. By the time they reached the other shore, all of them were laughing. The day's initial row had turned into a tale of teamwork, perseverance, and, of course, a little bit of friendly bickering. They spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing on the riverbank, reflecting on the row they had just completed.