carve
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /kɑrv/
KK: /kɑrv/
intransitive verb
Definition
To cut or shape something, often with a knife, usually to create a design or serve food.
Example
He decided to carve a pumpkin for Halloween.
Tense Forms
Past: carved
Past Participle: carved
Conversation
I saw this amazing video of someone carve a pumpkin for Halloween.
That sounds cool! I love seeing the designs people come up with.
Yeah, it looked so artistic how they carve the details.
I should try that this year; it might be fun!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
etch
slice
sculpt
Antonyms
join
assemble
mend
transitive verb
Definition
To cut something into a specific shape or design, often by removing parts of it; to create a form by cutting.
Example
He decided to carve a beautiful statue out of the block of wood.
Tense Forms
Past: carved
Past Participle: carved
Conversation
Did you see the wooden statue Jake carve last weekend?
Yeah, it looked amazing! He has such talent.
I wish I could carve something like that.
Root Explanation
Carve originates from Old English 'ceorfan', meaning to cut or slice. The word describes the action of cutting into a material to shape or form it.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word 'ceorfan' which means to cut — this helps you remember that to carve means to cut into something to shape it.
Visually Confused Words
cave
care
scarved
recarve
caravel
becarve
warve
varve