interjection
avast
uh-VAHST
interjection
1
A command meaning "stop" or "hold on," traditionally associated with sailors and pirates.
""Avast!" the captain bellowed, and the crew froze in place."
How to Use Avast
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn old nautical shout meaning "stop" — now mostly used jokingly to sound like a pirate.
When to use it
Archaic and almost always used humorously today, not in genuine command.
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"_____!" the captain bellowed, and the crew froze in place.
Etymology
Likely from Dutch houd vast, "hold fast," from houden ("to hold") and vast ("firm, tight").