Drift vs. Shaft — What's the Difference?
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Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on October 11, 2023
Drift refers to a slow and gradual movement or change in position; Shaft typically refers to a long, narrow, vertical passage made for various purposes, like access to mines.
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Difference Between Drift and Shaft
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Drift also finds its application in the automobile industry, referring to a driving technique where the driver intentionally oversteers to lose traction and slides through a corner. In this scenario, the term Shaft would not find applicability as it is primarily associated with structural and functional roles in construction and machinery.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
The word Drift carries various meanings and can be applied to describe movement, change, or development in different contexts, like the drift of clouds, trends, or thoughts, emphasizing lack of control or intentionality. In contrast, Shaft is more specific and primarily denotes a structural feature, being integral in designs of buildings, machines, and mines to facilitate functionality or access.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
The terms Drift and Shaft pertain to different concepts, primarily differentiating in their applications and implications. Drift, as a verb, describes the action of moving slowly and steadily without control, often caused by outside forces, such as wind or water currents. It can also represent a gradual deviation from intended course or opinion. On the contrary, Shaft refers to a vertical or inclined tunnel or passage, commonly associated with mining operations, providing access to underground areas or serving as a conduit for air or elevators.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Another angle to understand drift is in terms of intention. Often, drift denotes a lack of intentionality or control. For instance, a boat drifting in the water is not being steered purposefully. It moves as external factors dictate, be it the current or the wind.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
In the context of mining, Drift denotes a horizontal or near-horizontal passage made along the length of a vein or between levels of a mine. In this context, it shares similarity with Shaft in serving as a passage, but differs in orientation and purpose. A Shaft, in mining, is essentially vertical and is crucial for transport of personnel, materials, and extracted resources between the surface and underground workings.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
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Drift carries the implication of a movement or change that isn't propelled by its own volition but rather by external influences. It can refer to physical entities, such as snow or sand, being moved by wind or water, or more abstractly to changes in direction, intention, or meaning over time. When we talk about the drift of a conversation, we reference the shift in its focus or topic.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Shaft, on the other hand, refers to a specific structure or component. It primarily designates a long, narrow section of something, often serving as the main structural part. In machinery, a shaft typically transmits rotational motion. In architecture, it could be a vertical passage, like an elevator shaft. While drift indicates movement or change without control, shaft signifies structure, stability, and purpose.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Comparison Chart
Definition
Refers to slow and gradual movement or change in position.
Denotes a long, narrow, vertical passage.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Applications
Can be applied to describe movement, changes, or developments in various contexts.
Primarily denotes a structural feature in buildings, machines, and mines.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Orientation in Mining
Usually horizontal or near-horizontal passage in a mine.
Essentially vertical passage in mining operations.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
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Associated Actions
Involves moving slowly, floating, or changing gradually.
Involves constructing or creating a vertical passage.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Context of Usage
Varied and can be used in different contexts like drifting clouds or drifting cars.
Specific, usually associated with structural and functional features.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Meaning
Movement/change by external influence
Long, narrow part/section of an object
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Usage in Language
Often used metaphorically or abstractly
Generally used in a literal sense
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Examples
Drift of sand, drift in a conversation
Shaft of a tool, elevator shaft
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Definitions
Drift
A horizontal or near-horizontal passage made in a mine.
The miners used the drift to access the coal seam.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Shaft
A long, narrow, vertical or inclined passage or tunnel.
The elevator shaft was lined with lights.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
The act of moving slowly and steadily without control.
The drift of the boat left it far from the shore.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Shaft
The handle of a tool or weapon.
The shaft of the arrow was made of wood.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
Movement caused by wind or current.
The drift of the leaves was mesmerizing to watch.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Shaft
A long, slender part or structure.
The shaft of the arrow was made of wood.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
An accumulation of something, such as snow.
Snow drifts blocked the roads after the storm.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Shaft
A vertical passage or tunnel, especially in a mine.
The miners went down the shaft to start their shift.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
Movement without control or direction.
The boat was left to drift at sea.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
To be carried along by currents of air or water
A balloon drifting eastward.
As the wreckage drifted toward shore.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
To proceed or move unhurriedly or aimlessly
Drifting among the party guests.
A day laborer, drifting from town to town.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
To live or behave without a clear purpose or goal
Drifted through his college years unable to decide on a career.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
One of two parallel poles between which an animal is harnessed to a vehicle.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
To have no continuing focus; stray
My attention drifted during the boring presentation.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A long, generally cylindrical bar that rotates and transmits power, as the drive shaft of an engine.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
To vary from or oscillate randomly about a fixed setting, position, or mode of operation.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
To be piled up in banks or heaps by the force of a current
Snow drifting to five feet.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
To pile up in banks or heaps
Wind drifted the loose straw against the barn.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
Western US To drive (livestock) slowly or far afield, especially for grazing.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
Something moving along in a current of air or water
A drift of logs in the river.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A bank or pile, as of sand or snow, heaped up by currents of air or water.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
(Geology) Rock debris transported and deposited by or from ice, especially by or from a glacier.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A long, narrow, often vertical passage sunk into the earth, as for mining ore; a tunnel.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A gradual deviation from an original course, model, method, or intention.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A duct or conduit for the passage of air, as for ventilation or heating.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
Variation or random oscillation about a fixed setting, position, or mode of behavior.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
(Slang) Harsh, unfair treatment. Often used with the
The management gave the unions the shaft.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A horizontal or nearly horizontal passageway in a mine running through or parallel to a vein.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
(Slang) To treat in a harsh, unfair way
"He had been shafted by the press quite a bit" (Frank Deford).
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
The long, narrow, central body of a spear, arrow, or javelin.
Her hand slipped off the javelin's shaft towards the spearpoint and that's why her score was lowered.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A mass of matter which has been driven or forced onward together in a body, or thrown together in a heap, etc., especially by wind or water.
A drift of snow, of ice, of sand, of plants, etc.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
Any long thin object, such as the handle of a tool, one of the poles between which an animal is harnessed to a vehicle, the driveshaft of a motorized vehicle with rear-wheel drive, an axle, etc.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A beam or ray of light.
Isn't that shaft of light from that opening in the cave beautiful?
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
The main axis of a feather.
I had no idea that they removed the feathers' shafts to make the pillows softer!
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A collection of loose earth and rocks, or boulders, which have been distributed over large portions of the earth's surface, especially in latitudes north of forty degrees, by the retreat of continental glaciers, such as that which buries former river valleys and creates young river valleys.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
(lacrosse) The long narrow body of a lacrosse stick.
Sarah, if you wear gloves your hands might not slip on your shaft and you can up your game, girl!
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A vertical or inclined passage sunk into the earth as part of a mine
Your grandfather used to work with a crane hauling ore out of the gold mine's shafts.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A vertical passage housing a lift or elevator; a liftshaft.
Darn it, my keys fell through the gap and into the elevator shaft.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A ventilation or heating conduit; an air duct.
Our parrot flew into the air duct and got stuck in the shaft.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
(architecture) Any column or pillar, particularly the body of a column between its capital and pedestal.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The act or motion of drifting; the force which impels or drives; an overpowering influence or impulse.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
The main cylindrical part of the penis.
The female labia minora is homologous to the penis shaft skin of males.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A place (a ford) along a river where the water is shallow enough to permit crossing to the opposite side.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The tendency of an act, argument, course of conduct, or the like; object aimed at or intended; intention; hence, also, import or meaning of a sentence or discourse; aim.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
(weather) A relatively small area of precipitation that an onlook can discern from the dry surrounding area.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
(architecture) The horizontal thrust or pressure of an arch or vault upon the abutments.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
To fuck over; to cause harm to, especially through deceit or treachery.
Your boss really shafted you by stealing your idea like that.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A slightly tapered tool of steel for enlarging or shaping a hole in metal, by being forced or driven into or through it; a broach.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
To fuck; to have sexual intercourse with.
Turns out my roommate was shafting my girlfriend.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A tool used to pack down the composition contained in a rocket, or like firework.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
The slender, smooth stem of an arrow; hence, an arrow.
His sleep, his meat, his drink, is him bereft,That lean he wax, and dry as is a shaft.
A shaft hath three principal parts, the stele [stale], the feathers, and the head.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A tool used to insert or extract a removable pin made of metal or hardwood, for the purpose of aligning and/or securing two pieces of material together.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
The long handle of a spear or similar weapon; hence, the weapon itself; (Fig.) anything regarded as a shaft to be thrown or darted; as, shafts of light.
And the thunder,Winged with red lightning and impetuous rage,Perhaps hath spent his shafts.
Some kinds of literary pursuits . . . have been attacked with all the shafts of ridicule.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
That which resembles in some degree the stem or handle of an arrow or a spear; a long, slender part, especially when cylindrical.
Thou shalt make a candlestick of pure gold . . . his shaft, and his branches, his bowls, his knops, and his flowers, shall be of the same.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
(uncountable) Minor deviation of audio or video playback from its correct speed.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
The handle or helve of certain tools, instruments, etc., as a hammer, a whip, etc.
Bid time and nature gently spareThe shaft we raise to thee.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The situation where a performer gradually and unintentionally moves from their proper location within the scene.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A humming bird (Thaumastura cora) having two of the tail feathers next to the middle ones very long in the male; - called also cora humming bird.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
(mining) A passage driven or cut between shaft and shaft; a driftway; a small subterranean gallery; an adit or tunnel.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A well-like excavation in the earth, perpendicular or nearly so, made for reaching and raising ore, for raising water, etc.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The angle which the line of a ship's motion makes with the meridian, in drifting.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The distance a vessel is carried off from her desired course by the wind, currents, or other causes.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The place in a deep-waisted vessel where the sheer is raised and the rail is cut off, and usually terminated with a scroll, or driftpiece.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
An aggressive remark directed at a person like a missile and intended to have a telling effect;
His parting shot was `drop dead'
She threw shafts of sarcasm
She takes a dig at me every chance she gets
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The difference between the size of a bolt and the hole into which it is driven, or between the circumference of a hoop and that of the mast on which it is to be driven.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A long rod or pole (especially the handle of an implement or the body of a weapon like a spear or arrow)
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
(cricket) A sideways movement of the ball through the air, when bowled by a spin bowler.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
In New Forest National Park, UK, the bi-annual round-up of wild ponies in order to be sold.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
(intransitive) To move slowly, especially pushed by currents of water, air, etc.
The boat drifted away from the shore.
The balloon was drifting in the breeze.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
(intransitive) To move haphazardly without any destination.
He drifted from town to town, never settling down.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
(intransitive) To deviate gently from the intended direction of travel.
This car tends to drift left at high speeds.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
(intransitive) To accumulate in heaps by the force of wind; to be driven into heaps.
Snow or sand drifts.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
To make a drift; to examine a vein or ledge for the purpose of ascertaining the presence of metals or ores; to follow a vein; to prospect.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
(automotive) To oversteer a vehicle, causing loss of traction, while maintaining control from entry to exit of a corner. See Drifting (motorsport).
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A rod forming part of a mechanism, especially one that transmits motion.
The gearbox shaft was damaged.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
A driving; a violent movement.
The dragon drew him [self] away with drift of his wings.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A ray of light or bolt of lightning.
A shaft of sunlight pierced through the clouds.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
The act or motion of drifting; the force which impels or drives; an overpowering influence or impulse.
A bad man, being under the drift of any passion, will follow the impulse of it till something interpose.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
In informal language, unfair or harsh treatment.
He really got the shaft from his boss today.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Shaft
A beam or ray of light or other energy.
A shaft of sunlight broke through the clouds.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
The tendency of an act, argument, course of conduct, or the like; object aimed at or intended; intention; hence, also, import or meaning of a sentence or discourse; aim.
He has made the drift of the whole poem a compliment on his country in general.
Now thou knowest my drift.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Shaft
A long rotating part in machinery.
The motor's shaft connects to the gears.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
That which is driven, forced, or urged along
Drifts of rising dust involve the sky.
We got the brig a good bed in the rushing drift [of ice].
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A drove or flock, as of cattle, sheep, birds.
Cattle coming over the bridge (with their great drift doing much damage to the high ways).
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The horizontal thrust or pressure of an arch or vault upon the abutments.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A collection of loose earth and rocks, or boulders, which have been distributed over large portions of the earth's surface, especially in latitudes north of forty degrees, by the agency of ice.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A slightly tapered tool of steel for enlarging or shaping a hole in metal, by being forced or driven into or through it; a broach.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A tool used in driving down compactly the composition contained in a rocket, or like firework.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A passage driven or cut between shaft and shaft; a driftway; a small subterranean gallery; an adit or tunnel.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The difference between the size of a bolt and the hole into which it is driven, or between the circumference of a hoop and that of the mast on which it is to be driven.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
One of the slower movements of oceanic circulation; a general tendency of the water, subject to occasional or frequent diversion or reversal by the wind; as, the easterly drift of the North Pacific.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The horizontal component of the pressure of the air on the sustaining surfaces of a flying machine. The lift is the corresponding vertical component, which sustains the machine in the air.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
To float or be driven along by, or as by, a current of water or air; as, the ship drifted astern; a raft drifted ashore; the balloon drifts slowly east.
We drifted o'er the harbor bar.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
To accumulate in heaps by the force of wind; to be driven into heaps; as, snow or sand drifts.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
To make a drift; to examine a vein or ledge for the purpose of ascertaining the presence of metals or ores; to follow a vein; to prospect.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
That causes drifting or that is drifted; movable by wind or currents; as, drift currents; drift ice; drift mud.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The gradual departure from an intended course due to external influences (as a ship or plane)
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A general tendency to change (as of opinion);
Not openly liberal but that is the trend of the book
A broad movement of the electorate to the right
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
A horizontal (or nearly horizontal) passageway in a mine;
They dug a drift parallel with the vein
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
Be in motion due to some air or water current;
The leaves were blowing in the wind
The boat drifted on the lake
The sailboat was adrift on the open sea
The shipwrecked boat drifted away from the shore
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
Wander from a direct course or at random;
The child strayed from the path and her parents lost sight of her
Don't drift from the set course
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
Move about aimlessly or without any destination, often in search of food or employment;
The gypsies roamed the woods
Roving vagabonds
The wandering Jew
The cattle roam across the prairie
The laborers drift from one town to the next
They rolled from town to town
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
Vary or move from a fixed point or course;
Stock prices are drifting higher
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
Live unhurriedly, irresponsibly, or freely;
My son drifted around for years in California before going to law school
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
Move in an unhurried fashion;
The unknown young man drifted among the invited guests
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
Drive slowly and far afield for grazing;
Drift the cattle herds westwards
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
Be piled up in banks or heaps by the force of wind or a current;
Snow drifting several feet high
Sand drifting like snow
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 26, 2023
Drift
The slow and gradual movement or change in position.
The drift of the icebergs was monitored closely.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
The deviation from an intended course or standard.
The drift from our original plan has caused delays.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
In automotive, a driving technique where the driver intentionally oversteers.
The racer executed a perfect drift around the bend.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
A gradual shift or change.
There was a noticeable drift in public opinion.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
Drift
A general intent or purpose.
The drift of his argument was clear to everyone.
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Fiza Rafique
Sep 27, 2023
FAQs
Can Drift be used in various contexts?
Yes, Drift has varied applications, describing movement, change, or development in different contexts, emphasizing lack of control or intentionality.
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Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Is Shaft specific to any industry or field?
Shaft primarily finds relevance in construction, mining, and machinery, denoting a structural feature facilitating access or functionality.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Is Drift always involuntary?
While Drift often implies a lack of control, it can also refer to intentional actions in specific contexts, like drifting in racing.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Can Shaft refer to parts of tools or weapons?
Yes, Shaft can also refer to the handle of a tool or weapon, like the shaft of an arrow or a hammer.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
What does Drift generally mean?
Drift generally refers to a slow and gradual movement or change in position, often caused by external forces.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Can Drift refer to intentional actions?
Yes, in certain contexts like automobile racing, Drift can refer to intentional actions, such as a driving technique involving intentional oversteering.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Is drift always caused by natural forces?
No, drift can be influenced by various factors, natural or otherwise.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Does drift always mean something negative?
No, drift is neutral and indicates movement or change without specific intent.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Is the shaft typically the longest part of a tool?
Often, but not always; it's typically the main part to hold or that serves a structural purpose.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
What is the primary meaning of Shaft?
Shaft primarily refers to a long, narrow, vertical or inclined passage or tunnel, often for access or structural functionality.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Can you use drift in terms of music?
Yes, one can refer to the "drift of a melody" indicating its flow or direction.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
How is Shaft constructed in mines?
In mines, a Shaft is constructed vertically or at an incline, providing access between the surface and underground workings, and serving as a conduit for air or elevators.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Are elevator passages called shafts?
Yes, vertical passages for elevators are called elevator shafts.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Can drift refer to a change in opinion?
Yes, it can signify a gradual shift in perspectives or opinions.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Is the term "driveshaft" related to shaft?
Yes, a driveshaft is a mechanical component that transmits rotation, often in vehicles.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Can shaft refer to a part of a machine?
Yes, a shaft often refers to a rotating part in machinery.
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de40c3b8.webp)
Fiza Rafique
Oct 11, 2023
Author Spotlight
![](webp/364083f859b0c0321128971c30b9de405332.webp)
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content editor at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
![](webp/e71d67b1aba47c9e5bd8eb22e21c1ed55332.webp)
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.