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Avast: meaning, definitions and examples

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avast

 

[ əˈvæst ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

nautical command

To 'avast' is a nautical command meaning to stop or cease action. It is often used in maritime contexts to command a ship to halt its movement or to stop an action.

Synonyms

cease, halt, stop

Examples of usage

  • Avast heaving, lads!
  • The captain shouted, 'Avast your oars!'
  • Avast the sails before the storm hits.

Translations

Translations of the word "avast" in other languages:

🇵🇹 avast

🇮🇳 अवास्त

🇩🇪 avast

🇮🇩 avast

🇺🇦 встигати

🇵🇱 avast

🇯🇵 アヴァスト

🇫🇷 avast

🇪🇸 avast

🇹🇷 avast

🇰🇷 아바스트

🇸🇦 أفاست

🇨🇿 avast

🇸🇰 avast

🇨🇳 avast

🇸🇮 avast

🇮🇸 avast

🇰🇿 авист

🇬🇪 ავასტ

🇦🇿 avast

🇲🇽 avast

Etymology

The term 'avast' originates from the Dutch word 'houdoe' which means 'hold' or 'stop'. This Dutch seafaring vernacular made its way into English nautical language, particularly during the 17th century when Dutch maritime influence was significant. It is a command often used by sailors aboard ships to indicate that something should be halted or ceased immediately. In modern usage, 'avast' has been popularized through various media, particularly pirate-themed literature and films, giving it a whimsical charm that evokes the adventure of the open seas. Despite its antiquated sound, 'avast' still finds its place in nautical terminology, symbolizing the rich history and tradition of seafaring language.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,772, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.