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
  • The worker then pointed across the lot to Norman — who was washing someone’s car, tending to his summer job, minding his business.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 14 July 2025
  • Often problems arise from short-term pollution, which can happen during heavy rainfall that washes waste from sewage plants into the water.
    Katie Nadworny, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2025
Verb
  • Hummingbirds also have different requirements for bathing than many other birds.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 15 July 2025
  • Even elephant camps - a big tourist draw - won't let their animals bathe in it, either.
    Michael Sullivan, NPR, 12 July 2025
Verb
  • Despite a strong third shot, Lipsky's par putt lipped out and dropped him into a tie for third.
    Troy Finnegan‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
  • While at 13-over for the tournament on the par-five fourth on Friday, Lowry missed a short putt for par, lipping the right edge.
    Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 14 June 2025
Verb
  • The sink is prone to splashing and will wash any oil and vinegar residue away in no time.
    Hallie Milstein, Southern Living, 15 July 2025
  • In the top of the third, Shohei Ohtani even put the Dodgers in front, splashing his NL-leading 32nd home run of the season into McCovey Cove beyond right field for only the eighth splash-down home run by a Dodger player in Oracle Park history.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 12 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Lave.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lave. Accessed 26 Jul. 2025.

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