Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Wave” — 9 Other Ways to Say It
Moving water that rises and falls on the beach or ocean.
Meanings of Wave — Pick the Sense You Need
Wave has 3 common meanings. The synonyms below are grouped by meaning so you can jump straight to the sense you need.
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Meaning #1
as a noun
Moving water that rises and falls on the beach or ocean.
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Meaning #2
as a verb
Move your hand side to side to say hello or goodbye.
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Meaning #3
as a noun
A trend or pattern affecting many people or things together.
How to Pronounce Wave
IPA: /weɪv/ Stress: O
One syllable with a long 'ay' sound. 'W' like in 'water'.
3 Synonyms for Wave (Meaning #1 — as a noun)
These synonyms work when you use wave as a noun. Meaning: Moving water that rises and falls on the beach or ocean.
3 Synonyms for Wave (Meaning #2 — as a verb)
These synonyms work when you use wave as a verb. Meaning: Move your hand side to side to say hello or goodbye.
3 Synonyms for Wave (Meaning #3 — as a noun)
These synonyms work when you use wave as a noun. Meaning: A trend or pattern affecting many people or things together.
flood
/flʌd/When too much water overflows onto land, covering things that are usually dry.
Example: The flood destroyed homes in the valley.
trend
/trɛnd/The way something is moving or changing over time, especially upward or downward.
Example: The upward trend in sales encouraged investors.
Smart Synonyms for Wave — When to Use Each
swell
larger gentle rising of water surface
breaker
wave that crashes on the shore
How to Use Wave and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- The children played in the waves. A1
- Big waves are dangerous for swimmers. A2
- Surfers wait for the perfect wave. B1
- She waved goodbye from the window. A1
- The children waved at the parade. A2
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Wave
What is another word for "wave"?
Common synonyms for "wave" include: swell, breaker, ripple, gesture, signal.
What can I say instead of "wave"?
Try one of these alternatives: swell, breaker, ripple, gesture, signal. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "wave" formal or informal?
"wave" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "wave" instead of "swell"?
Use "wave" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "swell" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.