slaver: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2 (Very Low Frequency)Mostly literary or archaic; negative/pejorative when figurative.
Quick answer
What does “slaver” mean?
To let saliva run from the mouth, drool.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To let saliva run from the mouth, drool; or to show excessive admiration or desire (figuratively).
As a noun (archaic): a person or ship engaged in the slave trade.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The verb 'slaver' (drool) is used in both varieties but is somewhat more common in UK English, especially in its figurative sense. The noun for a slave ship is historical and not variety-specific.
Connotations
Identical: the verb is unflattering. The historical noun is associated with profound historical injustice.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both varieties; slightly higher recognition in UK English for the verb.
Grammar
How to Use “slaver” in a Sentence
slaver over [noun phrase]slaver at the thought/sight of [noun phrase][subject] slavers.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “slaver” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The dog would slaver all over the carpet whenever we cooked bacon.
- He was positively slavering over the new sports car in the showroom.
American English
- The toddler slavered on his toy.
- Critics accused the media of slavering over the celebrity couple.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Rarely in historical texts discussing the slave trade (noun).
Everyday
Can be used humorously or critically for someone showing excessive desire, e.g., for food or a celebrity.
Technical
Not used in technical contexts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “slaver”
- Using 'slaver' as a synonym for 'slave'. Confusing the verb with 'sliver' (a thin piece). Incorrectly using it in a positive context.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Etymologically, yes, but the modern verb 'slaver' (to drool) comes from a different root (related to 'slobber'). The noun for a slave trader/ship is directly from 'slave'.
No, it almost always has a negative or unflattering connotation, implying a lack of control, greed, or base desire.
They are synonyms, but 'slaver' can sound more literary, archaic, or vivid, and often carries a stronger sense of eager desire, not just involuntary saliva.
Only in a historical context. Using it to describe a modern person would be an extremely serious and archaic accusation.
To let saliva run from the mouth, drool.
Slaver is usually mostly literary or archaic; negative/pejorative when figurative. in register.
Slaver: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsleɪvə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈslævər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Slaver over someone/something (to desire obsessively)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a hungry dog with saliva ('slave-r') dripping from its mouth as it 'slavers' over a steak.
Conceptual Metaphor
DESIRE IS A PHYSICAL LEAK (from the body).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a correct use of 'slaver' as a verb?