lave

Definition of lavenext
as in to wash
to flow along or against the cold water from the stream gently laved her burned fingers

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of lave Such ties lave little resemblance to alliances such as NATO, where participation is voluntary and leaders are democratically elected. Loren Thompson, Forbes, 26 Apr. 2022 The running game had been ineffective through long stretches of the night, laving Cal with a rather lifeless attack. Bruce Jenkins, SFChronicle.com, 27 Sep. 2019 To Eastward San Diego’s heights Stretch downward to the bay Which coyly laves her with the waves Wherein the dolphins play. San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 June 2019
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lave
Verb
  • All produce, even organic, should be washed before peeling so dirt and bacteria aren’t transferred from a knife onto the fruit or vegetable.
    Sandee LaMotte, CNN Money, 11 Mar. 2026
  • On’s SenseTec Studio leggings come in a mix of neutrals (black and navy) and pastels (washed pink, mint green, dusty mauve, and a wispy blue that’s soon to launch).
    Talia Abbas, Vogue, 11 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The Domino Park festival also featured a library of bathing, with books on the spiritual experience of bathing, including those donated by bathhouse owners, Hammond says.
    Alexa Mikhail, Flow Space, 6 Mar. 2026
  • Anyone who has tried bathing a toddler in anything other than a bathtub knows the struggle.
    Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • In 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, Ralph Fiennes' Dr. Ian Kelson literally lip syncs for his life.
    Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 17 Jan. 2026
  • Juicy sobs into Athena’s arms, and Kenya freaks out about potentially having to lip sync against Juicy.
    Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 3 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The River features a winding lazy river, splash pad, state-of-the-art fitness center, resort-style lounging areas, and indoor and outdoor gathering spaces.
    Mosaic Mar. 8, Dallas Morning News, 8 Mar. 2026
  • Two tee shots splish-splashed into the water.
    Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 7 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Lave.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lave. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.

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