eave
|eave|
/iːv/
roof edge
Etymology
'eave' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'efes', where it meant 'edge' or 'border'.
'eave' changed from the Old English word 'efes' to Middle English 'eves' and eventually became the modern English form 'eave'.
Initially, it meant 'edge' or 'border', and over time it has retained the related meaning of the projecting edge of a roof.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the part of a roof that projects beyond the wall of a building; the overhanging edge of a roof.
Water dripped from the eave after the storm.
Synonyms
Noun 2
(archaic or regional) The area immediately beneath the eaves or the drip-line of a roof; historically associated with the place where one might stand to listen (see 'eavesdrop').
He stood in the eave to avoid being seen.
Last updated: 2025/10/02 23:44