The spelling of "waved around" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first three letters "w-a-v" are pronounced as /weɪv/, with a long "a" sound and a soft "e". The next two letters "e-d" are pronounced as /ɛd/, with a short "e" sound and a hard "d". The final two letters "a-r-o-u-n-d" are pronounced as /əˈraʊnd/, with a schwa sound followed by "rownd". The word is commonly used to describe a flag or object being moved in a circular motion.
The term "waved around" has multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. In a literal sense, it refers to the action of moving an object, often in a circular or back-and-forth motion, in such a manner that it moves around or towards various directions. This action is usually characterized by the arm or hand being extended and in movement, thus visually creating a waving or swaying motion. For instance, a person might wave around a flag during a celebration, or a conductor might wave around a baton to direct an orchestra.
In a figurative sense, "waved around" can have additional connotations. It can imply the act of displaying or brandishing something in a showy or boastful manner, typically to gain attention or assert dominance. For example, one might boastfully wave around a newly acquired expensive watch or flashy car keys. Furthermore, this phrase can also denote the act of utilizing something as a form of power, influence, or persuasion, oftentimes in a manipulative manner. An individual in a position of authority or influence might wave around promises or threats to exert control or gain compliance from others. In sum, "waved around" can encompass both literal and figurative actions involving the movement or display of objects, either to showcase or exert influence in various situations.
The phrase "waved around" does not have a unique etymology as it is a combination of two separate words: "wave" and "around".
The word "wave" comes from the Old English word "wafian", meaning "to wave or fluctuate". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "wabōną" and the Proto-Indo-European root "webh-", which means "to move back and forth".
The word "around" originated from the Old English word "on rūne", which signifies "in a circle, surrounding". It emerged from the Proto-Germanic word "umbi", ultimately derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*n̥dʰ-mo-", meaning "around".
When combined, the expression "waved around" refers to a specific action of waving something in a circular or sweeping motion.