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

Before your cookout, walk your yard and check for hives, especially near sheds, eaves or thick shrubs. — Sharon Wu, USA Today, 4 July 2026

They're often located in a shed, grill, doorway, or under the eaves, says Powell. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 28 June 2026

Hornet nests are made from a papery substance, are usually a closed structure that’s cylindrical in form, and may be built in the eaves of your home, under a roof, in a tree, or in another sheltered spot. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 June 2026

The department says embryo and primary nests are often found in trees, shrubs, eaves and other elevated locations around homes, businesses and wooded areas. — Christopher Harris, CBS News, 11 June 2026

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