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

If heavy snow or ice is on the way, move containers to a sheltered spot such as under an eave or in the garage. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 5 Jan. 2025

Some of the rooms boast a unique charm, nestled under the eaves, while the Prestige duplex rooms add an extra layer of luxury. —Rooksana Hossenally, Forbes, 26 Oct. 2024

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

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