What does STAVE mean?

Stave

Part of Speech: Noun, Verb

Definition:

• As a noun, stave refers to each of the wooden planks that form the sides of a barrel, bucket, or similar container. It can also refer to a stick or staff used as a weapon or for support.
• As a verb, stave means to break something, especially a hole in a container, by pushing against it from the inside.

Pronunciations:

• US: /steɪv/
• UK: /steɪv/

Origin and Usage:

The word stave comes from the Old English word stafas, meaning "staff" or "stick." Its use in the context of barrel-making dates back to the 14th century. The verb form of stave has been in use since the 16th century.

Synonyms:

• Plank
• Stick
• Staff
• Club
• Crush

Related Words:

• Carve
• Shave
• Brave
• Slave
• Waste

Example Sentences:

• The cooper carefully selected each stave for the barrel to ensure a tight fit.
• The sailor used a stave to fend off the attacking pirates.
• The pressure inside the container caused it to stave in, spilling its contents.