Pronunciation: [wˈe͡ɪv ˈɒf] (IPA) 
The word "wave off" is spelled w-eɪ-v oʊ-f. This term is commonly used in aviation to instruct pilots to abort a landing attempt and circle around for another approach. The word "wave" refers to a gesture of waving the arms to signal the pilot to come in for a landing, while "off" indicates the pilot should discontinue the landing and try again. This is an important phrase for ensuring safe and successful landings in aviation.
The phrase "wave off" has several distinct meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Primarily, "wave off" is a phrasal verb that indicates the act of gesturing or signalling with one's hand or arm in a sweeping motion, typically back and forth or up and down, as a means of farewell, dismissal, or rejecting an idea. This action is often accompanied by a friendly or casual smile, conveying a sense of informality or nonchalance.
In an aviation context, "wave off" refers to the action of aborting or canceling the approach or landing of an aircraft, usually due to safety concerns or poor conditions. This term is commonly used when an aircraft is approaching a runway but encounters an obstacle or experiences turbulence, prompting air traffic controllers or pilots to instruct the pilot to abandon the landing and make another attempt.
Furthermore, "wave off" can also denote the act of disregarding, dismissing, or rejecting something or someone. It signifies a definite refusal, often demonstrated through a dismissive hand gesture or a nonchalant shake of the head. This usage is commonly encountered in colloquial conversations when someone wants to decline, ignore, or disregard a suggestion, invitation, or an unwelcome person.
Overall, "wave off" is a versatile phrase that can convey several meanings, including bidding farewell or dismissal through a hand gesture, cancelling a landing attempt in aviation, or dismissing or rejecting something or someone in a casual or nonchalant manner.
The etymology of the phrase "wave off" can be understood by breaking it down into its constituent parts.
The word "wave" dates back to Middle English, where it originally referred to the act of moving one's hand or an object back and forth as a greeting or farewell gesture. This usage likely derives from the Old English word "wafian", meaning to wave the hand. Over time, "wave" began to have various additional meanings, including the motion of water, which eventually gave rise to its modern usage in contexts such as ocean waves.
The term "off" in "wave off" is used as a particle, expressing the idea of movement away or separation. It comes from the Old English word "of" or "off", which evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "*af".
