Stave: meaning, definitions and examples

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stave

[steɪv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

barrel construction

A stave refers to a vertical wooden post or plank that is used to form the curved sides of a barrel or similar container. Staves are traditionally made from hardwoods such as oak, which provide strength and resistance to moisture. In barrel construction, staves fit together to create a watertight seal, allowing the barrel to hold liquids effectively. The term can also be used in other contexts to describe similar structures in furniture or architectural design.

Synonyms

board, plank, post.

Examples of usage

The barrel was crafted from carefully aligned staves.
Each stave contributes to the overall strength of the wine barrel.
The cooper meticulously selected staves for the aging process.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

musical notation

In music, a stave refers to the set of five horizontal lines and four spaces that represent different musical pitches. Notes are placed on the lines and spaces to indicate their relative pitch, and additional symbols may be added to give further instructions about the music. The use of staves allows musicians to read and perform compositions accurately. It is essential for both notated music and as a basis for understanding musical concepts.

Synonyms

lines, notation, staff.

Examples of usage

The notes were written clearly on the stave.
She quickly learned to read music using the stave.
Each line of the stave represents a different note.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

to break or crush

To stave can also be used as a verb meaning to break or crush something in order to prevent it from reaching its full potential or to cause it to fail. This use is more figurative and often applies to staving off difficulties or challenges, such as 'staving off a crisis' or 'staving sleep.' The action suggests a proactive measure to create a delay or prevent a negative outcome.

Synonyms

avert, prevent, ward off.

Examples of usage

They worked hard to stave off the impending disaster.
He tried to stave off sleep by drinking coffee.
The team is staving off defeat with their strategy.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'stave' comes from the Old English word 'stæf', which means 'staff' or 'stick'.
In Middle English, it evolved into 'stave', relating to both music notation and wooden barrels.
The connection to music appears in the development of notation in the 9th century, as early staves were used to record chants.

Music Theory

Musical staves are structured in a way that each line and space represents a different pitch, helping musicians read and interpret songs.
In modern music, variations like the grand staff combine treble and bass staves to cover a wider range of notes.
The use of multiple staves allows for complex compositions, enabling simultaneous melodies and harmonies.

Literature

The term 'stave' is interestingly used in literature, appearing in titles like 'A Christmas Carol' by Charles Dickens, where each section is often referred to as a 'stave'.
In Dickens’ work, the use of 'stave' evokes a rhythmical sense, akin to musical staves, parallel to the narrative flow.
This literary device helps to underline themes and enhance storytelling through a musical lens.

Art

Visual art often incorporates the concept of the stave, particularly in the creation of synesthetic experiences where lines and spaces translate into visual rhythm.
Artists like Wassily Kandinsky believed that music had a direct impact on colors and shapes, harmonizing visual elements with staves.
In composition, both visual and sonic staves create bridges between different artistic expressions.

Pop Culture

In many movies and TV shows, the visual representation of music staves often accompanies scenes of creativity, tying emotions to musical notes.
Popular animated films sometimes depict characters using magic where they draw notes on staves to produce fantastical effects.
The cultural impact of music notation extends beyond traditional forms into modern genres, influencing various art forms including video games and theater.

Translations

Translations of the word "stave" in other languages:

🇵🇹 taco

🇮🇳 तख्ती

🇩🇪 Stab

🇮🇩 batang

🇺🇦 брус

🇵🇱 stawa

🇯🇵 棒

🇫🇷 tige

🇪🇸 vara

🇹🇷 çubuk

🇰🇷 막대

🇸🇦 عصا

🇨🇿 tyč

🇸🇰 tyč

🇨🇳 杆

🇸🇮 palica

🇮🇸 stafur

🇰🇿 таяқ

🇬🇪 ტარი

🇦🇿 sütun

🇲🇽 vara

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,096, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
19093 acoustics
19094 steadfastly
19095 papillary
19096 stave
19097 erode
19098 panicked
19099 reforestation
...