lave

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
  • Consumers should also wash and disinfect any surfaces that came in contact with the eggs.
    CBS News, CBS News, 7 June 2025
  • The hilltop compound is perhaps most famous for its car museum, a nearly 24,000-square-foot showstopper built to house Lyon’s epic personal collection, with room for 70 vehicles (none included with the sale, unfortunately), as well as an auto shop and wash and gas stations.
    Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 6 June 2025
Verb
  • For best results, wear loose, dark clothing and avoid showering or bathing for six to eight hours while your new tan develops.
    Jenny Berg, Vogue, 2 June 2025
  • Kids are constantly bathed in emotions, and emotional modulation is one of their most important developmental tasks.
    Mathilde Ross, CNBC, 31 May 2025
Verb
  • As the hardcourt legend enthusiastically lip synchs to the tune, Travis and Jason bop along and smile, with Travis matching Shaq’s hand gestures.
    Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 4 June 2025
  • Her southern drawl and uniquely humorous line delivery earned her virality amid a legion of new fans online, who often shared videos lip synching or imitating her notable lines from the show's third season.
    Madison E. Goldberg, People.com, 3 June 2025
Verb
  • Someone had splashed acid on the girl and then smothered her, an autopsy revealed.
    Mara Bovsun, New York Daily News, 31 May 2025
  • But while you may be tempted to spend your days sunning, building sand castles, and splashing in the waves (all of which are fabulous), don’t miss out on researching nearby attractions.
    Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 30 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Lave.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lave. Accessed 14 Jun. 2025.

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