This is the 1352nd most frequent Dutch word.
raakten
"Raakten" means "touched" or "got" (past tense of "raken").
In this sentence, 'raakten' is used as the past tense plural form of 'raken', meaning 'to touch' in this context.
De kinderen raakten de bal aan.
The children touched the ball.
Here, 'raakten' is employed to describe a state of transition—becoming lost.
De vrienden raakten verdwaald in het bos.
The friends got lost in the forest.
In this usage, 'raakten' signifies an involvement or commitment being established.