Wave

/weɪv/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A rhythmical movement of the surface of a liquid, especially the sea.
The surfers were excited to catch the big wave that rolled in.
A gesture made by raising and moving one's hand.
She gave a friendly wave to her neighbor as she walked by.
A sudden occurrence of a specified feeling or emotion.
A wave of sadness washed over him as he remembered his childhood.
verb
To move one's hand back and forth in greeting or as a signal.
He waved goodbye to his friends as the bus pulled away.
To move or sway in a certain direction, especially in an undulating manner.
The tall grass waved gently in the summer breeze.
To signal something, especially by a motion of the hand or arm.
She waved her hand to signal the end of the meeting.

Etymology

Middle English 'wave', from Old Norse 'veifa'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

wave goodbye:
To say farewell by waving the hand.
wave of excitement:
A quick surge of enthusiasm or emotion.
make waves:
To cause a disturbance or create a noticeable effect.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

To catch a wave on a surfboard.
Dude, I totally waved it this morning at the beach!
To show off or flaunt something.
He was just waving his new phone around for everyone to see.