english words that end in v

2 min read 15-04-2025

English Words Ending in "V": A Surprisingly Short List

The letter "v" is a relatively uncommon letter to end a word in English. Unlike "-s," "-ed," or "-ing," which are prolific suffixes, "-v" is a much rarer sight. This makes words ending in "v" somewhat unique and memorable. Let's delve into the surprisingly short list of English words that boast this distinctive ending.

Common Words Ending in "V"

While extensive lists are hard to find, some common words ending in "V" readily spring to mind:

Five: This quintessential number word is perhaps the most frequently encountered word ending in "-v."
Live: A verb meaning to be alive or to reside, and also a noun referring to a broadcast performance.

Less Common Words Ending in "V"

Moving beyond the most familiar examples, we venture into less common territory. These words are often more specialized or less frequently used in everyday conversation:

Give: Another common verb, meaning to freely transfer possession of something.
Have: A versatile verb indicating possession, experience, or action.
Jive: Slang term for a lively dance or insincere talk.
Wove: The past tense of the verb "weave."
Shove: To push forcefully.

Why Are There So Few Words Ending in "V"?

The relative scarcity of words ending in "-v" is largely due to the phonological properties of the English language. The sound represented by "v" is typically found in medial or initial positions within words, blending more easily into consonant clusters or acting as a word initiator. The ending position often necessitates a vowel sound for ease of pronunciation, making "-v" a less natural suffix.

Exploring Related Word Forms

While few words end in "-v," many words contain "v" as an internal letter and the '-ve' suffix is more common:

Active: Featuring the suffix "-ve."
Positive: Another word utilizing the "-ve" suffix.
Alternative: Demonstrating the presence of the letter 'v' within the word.

Conclusion: The Uniqueness of Words Ending in "V"

The small number of words ending in "-v" highlights the unique nature of this letter's usage in the English language. While "five," "live," "give" and "have" are frequently used, discovering others requires a more dedicated search. This scarcity adds to their memorability, making them stand out in our linguistic landscape. Remember to utilize these words correctly in your writing, and appreciate their uncommon ending!