The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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heave

verb

/hiv/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of heave

To lift, throw, or push something with a great amount of effort or force.
"The hiker struggled to heave his backpack up the steep mountain trail."

Detailed meaning of heave

It implies a physical exertion involving a significant amount of strength and energy. Heaving often involves a vigorous and upward motion, as if lifting or propelling an object from a lower position to a higher one. It can also refer to a forceful expulsion or ejection, such as forcefully throwing an object away or pushing it forcefully aside. Additionally, "heave" can describe the act of vomiting or retching, involving the forceful expulsion of stomach contents. In a figurative sense, "heave" can denote a strong emotional reaction or response, indicating an intense surge or upheaval of feelings or emotions. Overall, "heave" signifies a powerful and forceful action, whether in the physical or emotional realm.

Example sentences containing heave

1. The boxer managed to heave the heavy bag over his shoulder.
2. The stormy sea would heave the small boat around, making the journey perilous.
3. With all his might, he tried to heave the old trunk up the stairs.
4. The laborers had to heave the large rocks away from the construction site.
5. The ship started to heave under the weight of the heavy cargo.
6. He began to heave the rope attached to the anchor.

History and etymology of heave

The verb 'heave' has its origins in Middle English, where it was spelled as 'heven.' It evolved from the Old English word 'hebban,' which meant 'to lift' or 'to raise.' This Old English term, in turn, can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'hafjan,' signifying 'to heave' or 'to lift.' The sense of effort and force associated with 'heave' is evident in its etymology, emphasizing the physical exertion required to lift, throw, or push something with great effort. Over time, 'heave' has continued to depict actions that demand significant strength or force, making it a suitable word for describing such strenuous activities in the English language today.

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Further usage examples of heave

1. The entire team had to heave the log to clear the road.
2. The wind started to heave the branches of the trees around.
3. The movers were struggling to heave the piano into the truck.
4. The weightlifter managed to heave the heavy barbell above his head.
5. The sigh that he let out was more of a heave than a breath.
6. The horse had to heave the cart up the steep hill.
7. He strained to heave the suitcase onto the overhead compartment.
8. The building seemed to heave with the intensity of the music coming from the concert.
9. She tried to heave the heavy book off the top shelf.
10. The ground seemed to heave under their feet during the earthquake.
11. The crowd was heaving in excitement during the football match.
12. With a great effort, they managed to heave the old furniture out of the room.
13. After a long day of work, he had to heave himself off the couch.
14. She watched the horizon heave up and down as the ship sailed through the stormy sea.