wave 1 of 2

as in swell
a moving ridge on the surface of water the toddler was almost knocked down by the waves created by the speedboat

Synonyms & Similar Words

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wave

2 of 2

verb

as in to motion
to direct or notify by a movement or gesture waved them over to the side of the road

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word wave distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of wave are brandish, flourish, swing, and thrash. While all these words mean "to wield or cause to move to and fro or up and down," wave usually implies smooth or continuous motion.

waving the flag

In what contexts can brandish take the place of wave?

Although the words brandish and wave have much in common, brandish implies threatening or menacing motion.

brandishing a knife

When could flourish be used to replace wave?

The words flourish and wave are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, flourish suggests vigorous, ostentatious, graceful movement.

flourished the winning lottery ticket

When can swing be used instead of wave?

The words swing and wave can be used in similar contexts, but swing implies regular or uniform movement.

swing the rope back and forth

When is it sensible to use thrash instead of wave?

The meanings of thrash and wave largely overlap; however, thrash suggests vigorous, abrupt, violent movement.

an infant thrashing his arms about

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 wave
Noun
And despite the encroaching waves, which nibbled more of our NewFarms every month. Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 2025 But a subjective review of IL assignments over the past five years suggests this wave of early-September injuries is more notable than in recent seasons. Chad Jennings, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2025
Verb
As the show ended, Lauren appeared from backstage, waving to his fans which included Oprah Winfrey, Jessica Chastain and Naomi Watts. Roxanne Robinson, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025 If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 10 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for wave
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wave
Noun
  • But the swell of the score told us we were supposed to like that Andy left Paris.
    Megan Angelo, Glamour, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Kiko's swells should peak by Wednesday across the waters of the western islands, the hurricane center said.
    Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • The man calmly motioned to the back of his station wagon.
    Jim Clash, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025
  • From his Mercedes Benz, parked nearby, Martin spotted Davis and motioned him over, Davis wrote in his book.
    Gina Barton, USA Today, 7 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The Philadelphia Phillies have enjoyed a surge in the standings since the trade deadline and hold an 11-game lead in the National League East after sweeping the New York Mets.
    Peter Chawaga, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 Sep. 2025
  • This surge takes place as market watchers carefully await the Federal Reserve’s meeting on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week, where a rate cut is widely expected.
    Diane Brady, Fortune, 12 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • However, Aitana Bonmati gestured to the stands to be quiet, so that her team-mate could focus.
    Laia Cervelló Herrero, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2025
  • During a banquet dinner Sunday evening, Xi warmly greeted Putin and was seen gesturing expressively in conversation with the Russian leader.
    Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 2 Sep. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wave. Accessed 16 Sep. 2025.

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