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noun

eaves

eevz

Eaves (noun) means the edge of a roof that overhangs the walls of a building. Example: “Icicles hung from the eaves all winter.”

noun
1
The edge of a roof that overhangs the walls of a building.
"Icicles hung from the eaves all winter."
"A swallow built its nest under the eaves."

How to use eaves

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe overhanging lower edge of a roof.

Common mistake

Eaves is treated as plural in form but refers to one continuous edge of the roof, not multiple separate things.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Icicles hung from the _____ all winter.

Etymology

From Old English efes ("edge of a roof"), ultimately traced back to a Proto-Indo-European root meaning "above" or "over."

Origin: Old English

Rhymes for eaves

See all rhymes for eaves →

Frequently asked questions

What does “eaves” mean?

The word “eaves” means the edge of a roof that overhangs the walls of a building. In plain terms, the overhanging lower edge of a roof.

How do you pronounce “eaves”?

“Eaves” is pronounced eevz (/ivz/ in IPA).

How do you use “eaves” in a sentence?

Here is “eaves” used in a sentence: “Icicles hung from the eaves all winter.”

What part of speech is “eaves”?

“Eaves” is a noun.

Where does the word “eaves” come from?

The word “eaves” comes from Old English. From Old English efes ("edge of a roof"), ultimately traced back to a Proto-Indo-European root meaning "above" or "over.".

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial