race1

noun

• 1a competition between runners, horses, vehicles, boats, etc., to see which is the fastest in covering a set course:I won the first 50-lap 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.

• 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. See also millrace.
• a smooth, ring-shaped groove or guide in which a ball bearing or roller bearing runs.

verb

• 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]:attorneys have to think twice before they race each other to the courthouse
• compete regularly in races as a sport or leisure activity:the next year, he raced again for the team
• [with object] prepare and enter (an animal or vehicle) in races as a sport or leisure activity:he raced his three horses simply for the fun of it

• 2 [no object] move or progress swiftly or at full speed:I raced into the house figurativeshe spoke automatically, while her mind raced ahead
• (of a person’s heart or pulse) beat faster than usual because of fear or excitement.
• operate or cause to operate at excessive speed: [with object]:she’d driven like a madwoman, racing the engine and swerving around corners