to lower (something, such as a weapon), esp as a sign of deference or submission
2.
to remove (the hat, cap, etc) as a mark of respect or meekness
Word origin
c14 valen, from obsolete avalen, from Old French avaler to let fall, from Latin ad vallem, literally: to the valley, that is, down, from ad to + vallisvalley
vail in British English2
(veɪl)
noun, verb
an archaic word for avail
vail in British English3
(veɪl)
noun, verb
an archaic spelling of veil
vail in American English1
(veɪl)
verb intransitive
1. Archaic
to be of use, service, or profit; avail
noun
2. Archaic
a tip; gratuity
Word origin
ME vailen < pres. indic. stem of OFr valoir, to be of worth: see avail
vail in American English2
(veɪl)
verb transitive Archaic
1.
to lower; let sink or fall down
2.
to take off or tip (one's hat, etc.) as a sign of respect or submission
Word origin
ME valen < OFr valer or aphetic < avaler, to descend < à val, down < L ad vallum, lit., to the valley