First Known Use: 1536
Dictionary
1rove
verb \ˈrōv\
rovedrov·ing
Definition of ROVE
intransitive verb
: to move aimlessly : roam
transitive verb
: to wander through or over
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Origin of ROVE
earlier, to shoot at random, wander, of unknown origin
Synonym Discussion of ROVE
wander, roam, ramble, rove, traipse, meander mean to go about from place to place usually without a plan or definite purpose. wander implies an absence of or an indifference to a fixed course <fond of wandering about the square just watching the people>. roam suggests wandering about freely and often far afield <liked to roam through the woods>. ramble stresses carelessness and indifference to one's course or objective <the speaker rambled on without ever coming to the point>. rove suggests vigorous and sometimes purposeful roaming <armed brigands roved over the countryside>. traipse implies a course that is erratic but may sometimes be purposeful <traipsed all over town looking for the right dress>. meander implies a winding or intricate course suggestive of aimless or listless wandering <the river meanders for miles through rich farmland>.
2rove
noun
Definition of ROVE
: an act or instance of wandering
First Known Use of ROVE
1606
3rove
Definition of ROVE
past and past participle of reeve
4rove
verb
rovedrov·ing
Definition of ROVE
transitive verb
: to join (textile fibers) with a slight twist and draw out into roving
Origin of ROVE
origin unknown
First Known Use: 1789
5rove
noun
ROVE Defined for Kids
rove
verb \ˈrōv\
rovedrov·ing
Definition of ROVE for Kids
: to wander without definite plan or direction
— rov·er noun
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