wave (someone) off

phrasal verb

waved (someone) off; waving (someone) off; waves (someone) off

: to move one's hand as a way of telling someone that one does not want help

We offered to help but he waved us off.

Examples of wave (someone) off in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

This ability to ‘wave off’ and cancel an attack at the last second meant that in Afghanistan, the SwitchBlade 300 was cleared for use in situations where the rules of engagement did not allow rockets or artillery. —

David Hambling, Forbes, 11 Oct. 2024 The Teahupo’o wave off the coast of the Tahitian village is considered the heaviest in the world and has already been the site of multiple injuries during this year’s competition. —

Isabel Yip, NBC News, 30 July 2024 After an incomplete pass during the fourth training camp practice on Saturday, Aaron Rodgers appeared to wave off the second-team offense coming onto the field. —

Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 29 July 2024 Mac would wave off the partygoers set to arrive in an hour or two. —

Neal B. Freeman, National Review, 9 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for wave (someone) off

Dictionary Entries Near wave (someone) off

waveshape

wave (someone) off

wave (someone or something) through

See More Nearby Entries

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“Wave (someone) off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wave%20%28someone%29%20off. Accessed 12 Nov. 2024.

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