Rooves

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ɹuːvz/

Definitions

1. A plural form denoting the upper covering of a structure, typically providing protection from the elements
2. Referring to multiple tops or surfaces that cap off buildings or shelters to guard against weather conditions
3. The various structures that serve as protective coverings over rooms or buildings, designed to shield from rain and sun

Etymology: "Rooves" is the plural of "roof," and it is the older plural. It descends from Old English "hrōfas," the nominative and accusative plural of "hrōf," and reached Middle English as "rooves" and "roves." Over the centuries, the plural ending "-s" won out, so today "roofs" is the standard form, while "rooves" survives mainly in British usage, where it is still considered acceptable. The singular "roof" has its own long lineage in English, but the plural's story is essentially the story of the English plural ending itself: an older vowel-change pattern in "rooves" gave way to the regular "-s" that now governs most nouns.

Synonyms: roofs