D
Dicread
HomeDictionaryHheave

heave

Transitive VerbIntransitive VerbNoun
past: heavedpp: heaveding: heaving

This word evokes a sense of physical strain and heavy exertion. It describes movements that are not fluid or effortless, but rather labored and forceful, often involving the entire body to move a cumbersome object. When applied to the body, it describes involuntary or rhythmic movements associated with intense emotion or physical distress. This includes the deep, labored breathing of exhaustion or the visceral reaction of nausea, where the body physically rejects its contents.

Meanings

Transitive Verbheave
[~ something]

To lift or pull something heavy with great effort.

"They had to heave the heavy crate onto the truck."

Intransitive Verbheave

To rise and fall rhythmically, especially the chest during breathing or sobbing.

"Her chest began to heave as she struggled to catch her breath."

Transitive Verbheave
[~ something]

To throw something with a powerful effort.

"He heaved the stone across the river."

Intransitive Verbheave

To make a sudden effort to vomit or gag.

"The smell of the rotting fish made him heave."

Nounheave

A sudden lifting or rising movement, often of the ground or a ship.

"The ship gave a sudden heave as it hit the wave."

Related Words

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Report an Error