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eave

noun \ ˈēv \

Updated on: 29 Mar 2018

Definition of eave

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

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Recent Examples of eave from the Web

The branch falls quickly, wood cracking beneath it, picking up speed, until one end catches firmly on the overhanging eave and the other slows to a halt, caught by the soft hands of viny branches.

— james lynch, Popular Mechanics, "After the Storm," 9 Feb. 2018
Most were sucking on filthy icicles that had fallen from the eave of a greenhouse.

— alice gregory, New York Times, "Running Free in Germany’s Outdoor Preschools," 18 May 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'eave.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of eave

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

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: before 12th century

in the meaning defined at sense 1

See Words from the same year

EAVE Defined for Kids

eave

noun \ ˈēv \

Definition of eave for Students

: the lower edge of a roof that sticks out past the wall —usually used in pl.

Learn More about eave

See words that rhyme with eave Nglish: Translation of eave for Spanish speakers

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