From Middle English rakyl ("chain"), apparently related to Old Frisian rakels ("chain"), French racle (from a Germanic source), and also Middle English rakente, from Old English racente ("chain, fetter"). More at rackan.
Origin uncertain. Probably from rack, alteration of Middle English reken, from Old Norse reka, vreka -le. Related to Icelandic reka, Swedish vräka, Danish vrage, English wrack.
Modern English dictionary
Explore and search massive catalog of over 900,000 word meanings.
Word of the Day
Get a curated memorable word every day.
Challenge yourself
Level up your vocabulary by setting personal goals.