cove
UK: kəʊv | US: koʊv
n. a small sheltered bay or inlet
n. (archaic) a fellow; a man (slang, often derogatory)
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The word "cove" traces back to Old English cofa, meaning "small chamber" or "hollow place," likely from Proto-Germanic kubô. Its nautical sense emerged in Middle English, referring to a sheltered recess along a coast. The slang usage for "man" (16th–19th century) may derive from Romani kova, meaning "thing" or "person," though this is debated. The word’s evolution reflects a shift from generic "enclosed space" to specialized geographic and colloquial meanings.
The fishing boat anchored in a quiet cove at dusk.
Pirates hid their treasure in a secret cove.
(Archaic) "Who’s that old cove loitering by the tavern?"
The coastline is dotted with tiny coves perfect for snorkeling.
They picnicked in a sandy cove sheltered by cliffs.