Eaves are the part of a roof that sticks out past the walls of a house. They hang over the sides to keep rain and snow away from the walls, doors, and windows below.
In everyday life, people notice eaves when they look for shade on a hot day or when they hang holiday lights from them. Builders talk about eaves when they decide how far the roof should overhang, and homeowners often add gutters along the eaves to catch rainwater and protect the foundation.
Meaning & Usage Examples
“The eaves” is always plural, and you’ll hear it in phrases like “under the eaves” when someone stores boxes there or “the birds nested in the eaves” when sparrows build homes just under the roof edge.
Context / Common Use
Architects measure eaves to balance shade and sunlight. Gardeners plant flowers under the eaves because that strip stays a little drier. If you see paint peeling, it’s often right where the wall meets the eaves, since that spot takes the first hit from dripping rain.
Are eaves and gutters the same thing?
No. Eaves are the roof edge itself; gutters are the metal channels attached to them to carry water away.
How far should eaves stick out?
About 12 to 18 inches is common. More gives extra shade and rain protection; less keeps the look sleeker.
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