waving
word · lemma: wave
/ˈweɪvɪŋ/
WAY-ving
/wˈeɪvɪŋ/
WAY-ving
Definition
Moving your hand back and forth, usually as a greeting or signal. It can also describe something moving up and down, like hair or a flag.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for greetings or saying goodbye ('waving hello/goodbye'). Can refer to any object moving in a similar way. Common error: confusing with 'waving' (motion) vs. 'waving' (form of 'wave' meaning ocean wave, which is different). Mostly informal contexts.
Spanish: saludando - moviendo la manoPortuguese (BR): acenandoPortuguese (PT): acenarChinese (Simplified): 挥手Chinese (Traditional): 揮手Hindi: हाथ हिलानाArabic: يُلَوِّح بيدهBengali: হাত নাড়ানো - দুলানোRussian: машущий - размахивающийJapanese: 手を振る - 揺れるVietnamese: vẫy tay - phấp phớiKorean: 손을 흔드는 - 펄럭이는Turkish: el sallama - dalgalananUrdu: ہاتھ ہلانا - لہراناIndonesian: melambaikan - melambai
Example Sentences
She is waving to her friend across the street.
basic
The children were waving flags.
basic
He stood at the door, waving goodbye.
basic
Are you waving at me or someone behind me?
natural
Everyone was waving their phones at the concert.
natural
Her hair looked beautiful, waving in the breeze.
natural