eave

noun

ˈēv 

1

: the lower border of a roof that overhangs the wall

—usually used in plural

2

: a projecting edge (as of a hill)

—usually used in plural

Examples of eave in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Nothing about the building seemed remarkable, other than perhaps the small round windows tucked up near the eaves at either end. —Howard Lafranchi, The Christian Science Monitor, 18 Dec. 2024

Rooms are filled with modern and antique furniture, while the bones of the building—stone walls, eaves, gargoyles—sing out. —Cnt Editors, Condé Nast Traveler, 13 Dec. 2023

Red and green lights can be seen twinkling on the trees and eaves of nearby homes, giving every neighborhood a uniquely festive feel. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Dec. 2024

Some have those original stone flirting benches and walls, others have sloped ceilings tucked under the eaves, and some of the best have big balconies with views over the red tile roofs of Miragaia (and a soundtrack of seagulls and the neighborhood chickens), the customs house and the Douro River. —Ann Abel, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English eves (singular), from Old English efes; akin to Old High German obasa portico, Old English ūp up — more at up

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

eave

noun

ˈēv 

: the lower edge of a roof that sticks out beyond the wall of a building

—usually used in plural