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

On the day of the fire, Trenton Fire Department crews and other agencies responded to the two-story residential dwelling with smoke showing from the eaves, the department said in a news release. —Aaron Valdez, Cincinnati Enquirer, 7 Feb. 2026

Carved-wood dragons watch from palazzo eaves, and an ornate wrought-iron cage encases double bells atop the city hall’s clock tower. —Adam Erace, Travel + Leisure, 6 Feb. 2026

Large Icicles Large icicles or ice buildup along your home’s eaves signal trapped, melting water that can run into your home and damage walls, ceilings, and insulation. —Molly Burford, Southern Living, 6 Feb. 2026

The meltwater refreezes in the eaves, creating ice dams, which can indicate that the attic insulation needs to be updated. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Feb. 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