Wave around Meaning in English
expression
ˈweɪv/ /ɝˈaʊn/, /ɝˈaʊnd
WAYV er-OWND
wˈeɪv/ /ɐɹˈaʊnd
WAYV uh-ROWNED
Definition
To hold something up and move it from side to side, usually so people notice it or to draw attention.
Usage & Nuances
Often informal. Commonly used for objects like flags, papers, or even weapons. Implies a visible, sometimes exaggerated gesture to attract attention. For emphasis or boasting, can be negative ("wave around money"). Not literal waving as in greeting.
Spanish: agitar - blandirPortuguese (BR): balançar - agitarPortuguese (PT): abanar - agitarChinese (Simplified): 挥舞Chinese (Traditional): 揮舞Hindi: हवा में लहरानाArabic: يُلوِّح بـBengali: ঘুরিয়ে দেখানো - পেছনে-পিঠে নাড়ানোRussian: размахивать - махатьJapanese: 振り回すVietnamese: vung vẩy - khoe khoangKorean: 휘두르다 - 흔들다Turkish: sağa sola sallamak - etrafa göstermekUrdu: لہرانا - گھماناIndonesian: melambaikan - memamerkan
Example Sentences
The girl waves around her flag at the parade.
basic
Don't wave around that knife. It's dangerous.
basic
He likes to wave around his money at parties.
basic
Stop waving around your phone. You might drop it.
natural
He walked in, waving around the papers like he owned the place.
natural
You don't have to wave around your degree. We know you're qualified.
natural