The lower edge of a roof that sticks out beyond the wall of a building.
From Old English 'efes' meaning 'edge, border, overhanging'. It is related to words about edges and rims in other Germanic languages.
The overhang of the eave helps keep rainwater away from the walls and foundation, a tiny architectural detail that saves buildings. The word is often used only in the plural—'eaves'—which makes the singular sound almost unusual.
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