eave

noun

ˈēv 

1

: the lower border of a roof that overhangs the wall

—usually used in plural

2

: a projecting edge (as of a hill)

—usually used in plural

Examples of eave in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

With a cantilevered roof and exaggerated overhanging eaves, the building is a brick and concrete ode to the utterly flat beauty of the open plains. —AFAR Media, 14 July 2025

Attach the netting to overhanging eaves and angle back to the area on the siding where the damage occurs, or drape it over stakes to keep them away from deck posts, says Mengak. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 29 June 2025

The architecture followed the neoclassical style with Italianate details, such as overhanging eaves, a flat roof and simple, geometric shapes. —Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025

The gently sloped roof, overhanging eaves, and symmetrical façade all point towards what would develop into Wright’s Prairie style. —Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 8 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English eves (singular), from Old English efes; akin to Old High German obasa portico, Old English ūp up — more at up

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for eave

• breve
• cleave
• cleeve
• cleve
• eve
• grieve
• heave
• leave
• lieve
• neve
• reeve
• sheave

Kids Definition

eave

noun

ˈēv 

: the lower edge of a roof that sticks out beyond the wall of a building

—usually used in plural