From Middle English bilaven ("to wash all over"), from bi- + laven, equivalent to be- + lave.
Anomalous alteration of beleve and belive, both from Middle English beliven ("to remain"), from Old English belīfan ("to remain"), from Proto-Germanic *bilībaną ("to remain"). More at belive, leave.
Modern English dictionary
Explore and search massive catalog of over 900,000 word meanings.
Word of the Day
Get a curated memorable word every day.
Challenge yourself
Level up your vocabulary by setting personal goals.