# Rip

> A strong current flowing out to sea through a gap in the waves.

**What "rip" means in surfing:** A strong current flowing out to sea through a gap in the waves. Surfers use them to paddle out; swimmers should stay clear.

**Example:** "Use the rip to get out the back."

**Also said:** Rip current, Riptide

**Category:** Conditions

## Related words

- [Channel](https://surfslang.com/channel): A deeper path between breaking waves where you can paddle out safely.
- [Paddle out](https://surfslang.com/paddle-out): Paddling from the beach through the waves to the lineup.
- [Backwash](https://surfslang.com/backwash): Water rushing back out after a wave hits the beach, which can bounce into and spoil the next wave.

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Source: [Rip](https://surfslang.com/rip) on Surfslang.com, the surf slang glossary. Full glossary: https://surfslang.com/llms.txt