Words / A2

WAYV/weɪv/

Wave as a verb means move your hand to greet someone: wave goodbye, wave at a friend, wave from a window. Nod uses the head; shake hands is a greeting with palms. A wave as a noun is also water on the sea — extra A2 sense. Past: waved. Do not write waive (give up a right — B2) or waive when you mean wave.

Meaning

To move your hand to say hello or goodbye.

Examples

• “She waved to us from the train window.”
• “The children waved as the coach pulled away.”
• “He waved at the neighbour across the street.”

Good to know

wave goodbye / wave at someone. Past: waved. Noun extra: a wave (sea). Mix-up: waive (formal).

New