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

Check out the three-foot icicles dripping from the eaves and keep an eye out for the big boulder by the fire station on the right. —Los Angeles Times, 29 Jan. 2026

Finally, if a roof drainage system is blocked or poorly designed, ice dams can form, creating concentrated loads at the eaves. —Bailey Allen, The Providence Journal, 28 Jan. 2026

This classic Victorian wears its age beautifully, with stone details, shingles, and deep eaves that hint at its past. —Miriam Schwartz, Boston Herald, 23 Jan. 2026

Home hardening to the latest building codes includes structural changes such as replacing wood shingle roofs with roofing that is less flammable, such as tile; boxing eaves and replacing vents and windows. —Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Jan. 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