Traditional
Still common
Definition
A dangerous current pulling swimmers away from shore.
Example Sentence
"Don't swim there, there's a nasty rip."
Where "Rip" Comes From
"Rip" comes from "rip current", describing water rushing back out to sea through a channel in the sandbar or reef.
It's been standard beach safety terminology in Australia for as long as lifesaving services have existed.
How Aussies Actually Use It
It's used constantly in beach safety warnings, since rips are a leading cause of ocean rescues and drownings.
Swimming between the flags is the standard advice for avoiding one.
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