nef

noun

ˈnef
plural -s
1
obsolete : nave
2
: a 16th century clock in the form of a ship having mechanical devices to illustrate astronomical movements
3
: an ornamental table utensil (as for holding a napkin, knife, and spoon) shaped like a ship

Word History

Etymology

French, nave, boat-shaped vessel, from Medieval Latin navis

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near nef

Cite this Entry

“Nef.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nef. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!