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
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Recent Examples of wave
Noun
Warm, enthusiastic applause rolled over the auditorium in waves as the film credits rolled, and the Dardennes embraced their co-stars.—Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 23 May 2025 The climax of the season is a surfing safari to Cortes Bank, 100 miles off the coast of Southern California, where an undersea island creates huge waves with no land in sight.—Yvonne Villarreal, Los Angeles Times, 23 May 2025
Verb
Each time his lead widened as more results came in, the crowd, many waving the flags of Europe, would erupt in cheers.—Stephen McGrath, Los Angeles Times, 19 May 2025 Gressel was wide open, waving his arms for Pereyra to find him at the back post.—Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 18 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for wave
Russia’s war against Ukraine has triggered a surge in European defense budgets, and Ebert believes this could become an unexpected catalyst for innovation.
—
Jackie Snow,
Quartz,
14 May 2025
The announcement of the dinner prompted a large surge in the price of the $TRUMP token.
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