What does weave mean?
Weave primarily means to interlace threads, fibres, or other strands in order to make cloth, baskets, mats, or similar structures. The verb can also describe joining separate elements into a coherent whole, as when an author weaves historical detail into a narrative or a community weaves traditions into a shared identity. In motion, to weave means to travel in an alternating or twisting path, especially among obstacles or moving traffic. As a noun, a weave is a woven material or pattern, but it may also refer to an intricate arrangement of ideas, relationships, or strategies. The word combines a practical description of an ancient craft with flexible figurative uses. Its imagery is effective because individual strands remain distinct while producing a stronger, more complex whole. This makes “weave” especially useful when discussing texts, communities, ecosystems, and other systems whose parts function together.
To interlace threads or other strands to form fabric or a structure; to combine elements into a connected whole; or to move in a twisting, alternating path.
"The craftsperson carefully wove the reeds into a sturdy basket."
Often transitive, though “weave through” is also common. Figurative uses refer to combining narrative, ideas, people, or other elements into an integrated whole.
A woven fabric, texture, or pattern; also an intricate arrangement or a strategy formed by combining different elements.
"The novel is a rich weave of folklore, history, and family memory."
The noun may refer to a physical textile or, figuratively, to the structure of a narrative, network, or series of strategic relationships.
Usually plural when referring to separately woven fabrics, patterns, or figurative arrangements.
"The exhibition displays several traditional weaves from different regions."
From ancient baskets to modern storytelling, weaving turns separate strands into something stronger and more intricate.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does weave come from?
The English word descends from Old English wefan, meaning “to weave” or “interlace,” and ultimately from a Germanic root shared by forms in several European languages. Its relatives include German weben, Dutch weven, and Old Norse vefa. English also developed related forms such as web and webbing, while the noun use of “weave” developed from the long-established action of interlacing threads.
Related word forms
How weave is actually used
The verb is commonly transitive, as in “weave a basket,” but can also be used intransitively in constructions such as “weave through the crowd.” Figurative uses are established and generally neutral, although “weave a narrative” can suggest skill, subtlety, or deliberate complexity.
Easily confused with weave
To weave is to interlace strands, whereas to waive is to relinquish a right, requirement, or objection voluntarily.