Meaning

To stir things up or cause a fuss, rocking the calm.

Origin

From 20th-century America, tied to boating; waves meant trouble, slang by 1960s for stir. A 1962 'Time' uses it for a rebel's splash.

Variants

  • Make the waves

Usage Examples

  • She made waves with that bold speech.
  • He's making waves in the quiet office.
  • Make waves; don't just sit there!

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