wave
A wave is a raised line of water that moves across the surface of an ocean or lake. It is usually created by the wind and ends by breaking on the shore.
Examples
3 of 5The children were jumping over a small wave at the beach.
The children were jumping over a small wave at the beach.
The research team measured the height of each wave during the storm.
The research team measured the height of each wave during the storm.
Check out that huge wave! It's perfect for surfing.
Check out that huge wave! It's perfect for surfing.
Word Family
Memory Tip
The letter 'W' looks like two waves in the water.
Quick Quiz
The surfer waited for a big ______ to come toward the shore.
Correct!
The correct answer is: wave
Examples
The children were jumping over a small wave at the beach.
everydayThe children were jumping over a small wave at the beach.
The research team measured the height of each wave during the storm.
formalThe research team measured the height of each wave during the storm.
Check out that huge wave! It's perfect for surfing.
informalCheck out that huge wave! It's perfect for surfing.
A seismic wave travels through the Earth's crust after an earthquake.
academicA seismic wave travels through the Earth's crust after an earthquake.
The company is riding a wave of popularity following the tech expo.
businessThe company is riding a wave of popularity following the tech expo.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
make waves
to cause trouble or change a situation
ride the wave
to enjoy a period of success
on the same wavelength
to think in a similar way to someone else
Often Confused With
Usage Notes
When used in a nature context, 'wave' is a countable noun. It can refer to physical water movements or abstract movements like sound or heat.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'wave' as an uncountable noun, but you should say 'a wave' or 'many waves' when talking about the sea.
Memory Tip
The letter 'W' looks like two waves in the water.
Word Origin
From the Old English word 'wafian', meaning to fluctuate or move to and fro.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many coastal cultures, waves are symbols of both recreational fun (surfing) and the dangerous power of nature.
Quick Quiz
The surfer waited for a big ______ to come toward the shore.
Correct!
The correct answer is: wave
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
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endangered species
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invertebrate
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