(Sax. efes; Fr. eaux), the lower edges of the inclined sides of a roof, which project beyond the face of the walls, so as to throw off rain from the foundations.

EAVES-Dropper, one who stands under the eaves, or near the wall or window of a house, for the purpose of hearing what passes within. Eaves-droppers are called by the Statute of West, i. c. 33, "evil members of the commonwealth." In England they are punishable by a fine.