The word "lave" is a verb that means to wash or bathe. It is spelled with the letters "L-A-V-E" and is pronounced with the IPA phonetic transcription /leɪv/. The "A" in "lave" is pronounced with the "ay" sound, like in the word "shame." The "V" is pronounced with the "v" sound, like in the word "very." The "E" is pronounced with the "eh" sound, like in the word "pet." So, when pronouncing "lave," say it like "lay-ve."
The term "lave" can be either a noun or a verb, with the verb form being more commonly used. As a verb, "lave" usually means to wash or cleanse by applying or flowing liquid over something. It is often associated with the act of cleaning or bathing. For instance, one might use the term to describe the action of rinsing or bathing parts of the body, or even cleaning an object or a surface with water or another liquid.
As a noun, "lave" typically refers to a pool or a body of water, usually confined or surrounded by natural elements. It can also be used to describe a small stream or a waterfall where water flows and cascades gently. In this context, "lave" denotes a serene and peaceful scene where water moves gently or collects into a calm and reflective body.
The origins of "lave" can be traced back to Middle English and Old English, with similar words appearing in other Germanic languages. Over time, its meaning has evolved to encompass various applications related to the action of washing or bathing. Today, "lave" remains a less commonly used word in everyday language, but it can still be found in literature, poetry, or specific contexts where a more picturesque or imaginative expression is desired.
• To wash: to bathe.
• To throw up or out; to lade out.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "lave" comes from the Old English word "lafian", which means "to wash or bathe". This Old English word is related to the Old Norse word "laug", which also means "to wash" and is the root of the English word "laundry". The word "lave" has evolved over time to refer to the act of washing or cleansing, especially with water, and is still used in modern English.