Wave

Definition

Wave refers to a moving ridge or oscillation on the surface of a liquid, such as water, or a gesture involving the motion of the hand or an object to signal or communicate. It can also describe a physical phenomenon characterized by the propagation of energy through a medium or space.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /weɪv/
• Respelling: WAYV

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /weɪv/
• Respelling: WAYV

Etymology

The word "wave" originates from Old English "wafian," meaning "to wave or fluctuate," and "wæf," referring to the motion of water. It evolved through Middle English to describe both physical motion and gestures.

Derivatives

• Wavy (adjective)
• Wavelet (noun)
• Waveform (noun)
• Wavefront (noun)
• Microwave (noun)

Synonyms

• Ripple
• Gesture
• Surge

Antonyms

• Stillness
• Flatness
• Immobility

Usage

The word "wave" can describe a physical motion of water, as in "The boat rocked with the waves." It is also commonly used for gestures, such as "She gave a friendly wave to the crowd." Additionally, it is employed in physics to describe phenomena like sound or light waves.

Related Terms

• Oscillation: Regular back-and-forth movement.
• Gesture: A movement of the body, particularly the hands or head, to express an idea.
• Frequency: The number of wave cycles passing a point in a given time.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A ridge or swell on the surface of water: Describes the undulating motion of a liquid.
  • Example: "The surfer rode a massive wave to the shore."
• A gesture involving the motion of the hand: Refers to a signal or greeting made by moving the hand back and forth.
  • Example: "She greeted him with a quick wave."
• A physical phenomenon involving energy propagation: Refers to the transfer of energy through a medium, such as sound waves or electromagnetic waves.
  • Example: "The scientist explained the behavior of light waves."

Verb

• To move one’s hand as a signal or greeting: Refers to the action of gesturing with the hand.
  • Example: "He waved goodbye as the train departed."
• To move back and forth or undulate: Describes the motion of an object or surface.
  • Example: "The flag waved in the wind."
• To signal or direct by waving: Indicates using a motion to guide or communicate.
  • Example: "The lifeguard waved them to shore."