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

Some build nests underground in grassy areas or dense vegetation, while others look for openings in trees, wall voids, eaves, and roof overhangs, says Jim McHale, president of JP McHale Pest Management. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 19 July 2026

Deep overhanging eaves cast long shadows across geometric leadlight windows, while thick bands of locally quarried sandstone wrap the base – Griffin’s signature, written not in ink but in stone. — Natalie Hoberman, Forbes.com, 18 July 2026

Nestled on almost half an acre shaded by a huge oak tree, with a nearby access point to Sag Harbor Cove, the Gothic Victorian’s white wood exterior features a dramatic turret, multiple gables, deep eaves, and oversized windows. — Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 7 July 2026

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