grave

⁴grave

adj \ˈgrāv, in sense 5 often ˈgräv\

grav·ergrav·est

Definition of GRAVE

1

a obsolete : authoritative, weighty b : meriting serious consideration : important <grave problems> c : likely to produce great harm or danger <a grave mistake> d : significantly serious : considerable, great <grave importance>

2

: having a serious and dignified quality or demeanor <a grave and thoughtful look>

3

: drab in color : somber

4

: low-pitched in sound

5

a of an accent mark : having the form ` b : marked with a grave accent c : of the variety indicated by a grave accent

— grave·ly adverb

— grave·ness noun

Examples of GRAVE

1. This violation of school rules is a grave matter.
2. His carelessness could have grave consequences.
3. They have placed themselves in grave danger.
4. I have grave doubts about this plan.
5. suffering from a grave illness
6. The judge issued his ruling with a grave expression.
7. The French word père is written with a grave accent over the first e.

Origin of GRAVE

Middle French, from Latin gravis heavy, grave — more at grieve

First Known Use: 1539