wave in

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Meaning · English

To try, in public, to attract people into a business establishment.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

Bonnie Powers is the walking, talking hotdog who waves customers in off the street and greets the children with a smile. http://valdostadailytimes.com/archive/x1155920621/Slap-Daddy-s-serves-it-fresh-and-hot

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “wave in” mean?

To try, in public, to attract people into a business establishment.

Is “wave in” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.