wave
word
/ˈweɪv/
wayv
/wˈeɪv/
wayv
Definition
A wave is a raised line of water that moves across the sea, a lake, or another surface. As a verb, it also means to move your hand to say hello, goodbye, or get someone's attention.
Usage & Nuances
Common as both a noun and a verb. For water, English often says 'big waves' or 'a wave hit the boat'. For the gesture, use 'wave at someone' or 'wave goodbye'. Don't confuse it with 'waive', which means to give up a right or rule.
Spanish: ola - saludar con la manoPortuguese (BR): onda - acenarPortuguese (PT): onda - acenarChinese (Simplified): 波浪 - 挥手Chinese (Traditional): 波浪 - 揮手Hindi: लहर - हाथ हिलानाArabic: موجة - يلوّح بيدهBengali: তেরঙ্গ - হাত নাড়া (ইশারা)Russian: волна - махать (рукой)Japanese: 波 - 手を振るVietnamese: sóng - vẫy tayKorean: 파도 - 손을 흔들다Turkish: dalga - el sallamakUrdu: موج - ہاتھ ہلاناIndonesian: gelombang - melambaikan tangan
Example Sentences
A huge wave hit the beach.
basic
She waved to her friend from the bus.
basic
The children jumped over the small waves.
basic
I saw you wave, but I couldn't stop the car.
natural
The boat was rocking because of the waves.
natural
Just wave if you need help.
natural