Dove
duhv
Dove (noun) means a bird, typically white or grey, closely related to the pigeon and often used as a symbol of peace. Example: “A white dove was released at the ceremony.”
noun
1
A bird, typically white or grey, closely related to the pigeon and often used as a symbol of peace.
"A white dove was released at the ceremony."
"Doves are common in city parks as well as the countryside."
2
A person who favours peaceful or diplomatic solutions over conflict, especially in politics.
"The doves in the cabinet pushed for a ceasefire."
verb
1
Past tense of "dive," used in American English.
"He dove into the pool without hesitating."
How to use Dove
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA peace-symbol bird — also, informally, a politician or advisor who favours peace over war, and (in US English) the past tense of "dive."
UK vs US
"Dove" as the past tense of "dive" is standard in American English; British English usually says "dived."
Easily confused with
Common pairings
dove of peace
peace dove
political dove (vs hawk)
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A white _____ was released at the ceremony.
Etymology
A modern formation of the strong conjugation, by analogy with drive → drove and weave → wove.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for Dove
See all rhymes for Dove →Frequently asked questions
What does “Dove” mean?
The word “Dove” means a bird, typically white or grey, closely related to the pigeon and often used as a symbol of peace. In plain terms, a peace-symbol bird — also, informally, a politician or advisor who favours peace over war, and (in US English) the past tense of "dive.".
How do you pronounce “Dove”?
“Dove” is pronounced duhv (/dʌv/ in IPA).
How do you use “Dove” in a sentence?
Here is “Dove” used in a sentence: “A white dove was released at the ceremony.”
What part of speech is “Dove”?
Depending on how it is used, “Dove” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “Dove” a common word?
“Dove” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “Dove” have?
“Dove” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a bird, typically white or grey, closely related to the pigeon and often used as a symbol of peace.
Is "dove" the past tense of "dive" in British English?
No. In British English the standard past tense of "dive" is "dived," while "dove" is the form used in American English. Both are widely understood, but British style guides still prefer "dived" for formal writing.
Why is a dove used as a symbol of peace?
The dove, typically white or grey and closely related to the pigeon, has long been associated with peace and calm, which is why it appears in political and diplomatic imagery. This symbolic use also carried over into political language, where a "dove" describes someone who favours peaceful or diplomatic solutions over conflict.
What is the difference between a political "dove" and a "hawk"?
A political dove favours peaceful or diplomatic solutions and tends to be cautious about military action, while a hawk favours a more aggressive or confrontational stance. The terms are commonly used to describe opposing camps within governments or on foreign policy issues.
