WordGarden.ioweave
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /wˈiːv/
US
- /ˈwiv/
Meanings
Verb
to make cloth or a similar material by interlacing threads or strands
to move forward while swerving from side to side or in and out
to build a story, account, or message by combining details into a connected whole
Noun
a pattern or structure formed by interlacing threads in cloth
a hairstyle or hair extension made by attaching added hair
Beyond the definition
To weave is to interlock threads or strands to make cloth, baskets, or other objects. But it's not just about textiles. You can also weave a story, meaning to build it with connected details. Think of a spider weaving its web, slowly making something complex from simple strands.
If you weave different ideas together in an argument, you create a strong, connected line of reasoning. A skilled storyteller will weave suspense into a narrative, drawing the reader deeper into the plot. You might even say someone weaves through a crowd, meaning they move smoothly between people.
Weaving is best known as the act of interlacing threads to create fabric or other materials. Think of a loom, where warp and weft threads pass over and under each other in a precise pattern, resulting in cloth such as cotton, silk, or wool. "She spent hours at the loom, carefully weaving a beautiful tapestry."
However, weave extends beyond just physical creation. It can also mean to combine different elements into a cohesive whole. A compelling narrative might weave together multiple storylines and characters, creating a rich and complex plot. A politician might weave promises of change with appeals to tradition in order to win over a diverse audience.
Figuratively, "to weave" suggests skill, artistry, and the creation of something intricate from simpler parts. You can weave your way through traffic, skillfully maneuvering around obstacles. Or you could say someone weaves a spell—meaning they captivate or enchant with their words or actions.
Historically, weaving was an essential craft for survival, providing clothing and shelter. Today, it remains both a practical skill and a metaphor for creativity, connection, and the art of bringing things together. So whether you're talking about fabric, stories, arguments, or movement, weave implies a deliberate act of interlacing and creating something new from separate strands.
Examples
- 1
Textile craft
She learned to weave cloth on a simple wooden loom.
- 2
Traffic movement
The driver had to weave through a line of stalled cars.
- 3
Winding path
A narrow footpath weaves between the vineyards and down to the beach.
- 4
Crowd movement
A few children were weaving in and out of the crowd near the stage.
- Patternweave in and out of + place/crowd
move through it by changing direction again and again
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Writing
The author weaves memories of her childhood into the novel.
- Patternweave + detail/theme into + work
include it as a natural part of something larger
- 6
Combining elements
The film weaves together comedy and sadness without ever feeling messy.
- Patternweave together + things
combine them into one whole
- 7
Cultural life
Old customs are still woven into everyday life here.
See also
Forms and spellings
6 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- weavenounverb
Forms
- wovenpast participleverbnoun
- weaving-ing formverbnoun
- weavesverbnoun
- wovepast tenseverbnoun
- weavedpast tenseverbnoun