wave off
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
To give a wave of one's hand, or of a flag or wand, so as to signal (someone) to desist or leave.
Examples
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).
Sense 2
To give a wave of one's hand, or of a flag or wand, so as to signal (someone) to desist or leave. — Of an aircraft carrier landing signal officer, to signal a pilot to go around.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
To say goodbye to someone with a wave (hand gesture).
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “wave off” mean?
To give a wave of one's hand, or of a flag or wand, so as to signal (someone) to desist or leave.
Is “wave off” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.