waft
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /wæft/
KK: /wæft/
intransitive verb
Definition
To move lightly and smoothly through the air, often referring to scents or sounds that travel gently.
Example
The sweet aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the kitchen.
Tense Forms
Past: wafted
Past Participle: wafted
Conversation
Did you smell that delicious aroma from the bakery?
Yeah, it really waft through the air and caught my attention.
I love how the scent can waft around the neighborhood.
Me too! It's one of my favorite things about living here.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
drift
float
glide
Antonyms
sink
plummet
drop
noun
Definition
A light movement of air that carries something, like a smell or a sound, through the atmosphere.
Example
The waft of freshly baked bread filled the kitchen.
Conversation
Did you notice the lovely waft of flowers in the park today?
Yeah, it smelled amazing! I love springtime.
I know, right? That gentle waft really brightens the day.
transitive verb
Definition
To send or carry something gently through the air, often in a light or smooth manner.
Example
The scent of fresh bread wafted through the kitchen.
Tense Forms
Past: wafted
Past Participle: wafted
Conversation
Can you smell that delicious aroma from the kitchen?
Yeah, it really wafts through the house!
I love when the smell of baking cookies wafts around.
Root Explanation
Waft originates from Middle English 'waften', meaning to carry or convey. The word describes the action of carrying or sending something lightly through the air, often referring to scents or sounds.
Memory Tip
Imagine a gentle breeze 'carrying' something through the air — that's what 'waft' means.
Visually Confused Words
awaft
wat
waf
aft
upwaft