Dictionary

1rove

verb \ˈrōv\
rovedrov·ing

Definition of ROVE

intransitive verb
:  to move aimlessly :  roam
transitive verb
:  to wander through or over
ADVERTISEMENT

Origin of ROVE

earlier, to shoot at random, wander, of unknown origin
First Known Use: 1536

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>.

Rhymes with ROVE

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

Definition of ROVE

:  roving

First Known Use of ROVE

1789
ROVE Defined for Kids

rove

verb \ˈrōv\
rovedrov·ing

Definition of ROVE for Kids

:  to wander without definite plan or direction
rov·er noun

Browse

4 ENTRIES FOUND:
Next Word in the Dictionary: rove beetlePrevious Word in the Dictionary: rouxAll Words Near: rove
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears