Stave

usgb/steɪv/
verb

To stop something bad from happening for a while.

We need to find a way to stave off these financial problems.
Visual representation of "stave" - To stop something bad from happening for a while.

Often appears as...

  • stave off disaster
  • stave off hunger
Definition 1 of 4
Visual representation of "stave"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Temporary Relief

Used to describe a temporary solution, not solving the problem completely.

Illustration for Temporary Relief
Eating a small snack can stave off hunger until dinner.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Metaphorical Use

Often used metaphorically to describe preventing non-physical threats.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
We must take action to stave off the threat of climate change.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Urgent Action

Implies an urgent action is required to delay something negative.

Illustration for Urgent Action
We'll need a big win to stave off relegation this season.
Visual representation of the word "Stave"

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