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Gouging Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gouging

[ˈɥaʊdĘ’ÉŠÅ‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical action

Gouging refers to the act of making a groove, hole, or indentation in a surface, often using a tool or a sharp object. This process can be performed on various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. In a more metaphorical sense, gouging can also refer to charging excessively or unfairly for goods or services. In such contexts, it often carries a negative connotation, implying exploitation or greed.

Synonyms

charging excessively, excavating, overpricing, scooping.

Examples of usage

  • The carpenter was gouging out the wood to create a smooth surface.
  • The prices during the festival were gouging, with vendors charging far more than usual.
  • He accidentally gouged the metal, leaving an unsightly mark.
  • They accused the company of gouging customers during the crisis.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Economics

  • Price gouging refers to raising prices on essential goods during emergencies, which some places have laws against.
  • It often sparks moral debates about fairness and exploitation in supply and demand situations.

Art & Craft

  • Gouging tools are vital in wood carving and sculpting for creating designs and textures.
  • Artists often use gouging techniques to add depth and perspective in their works.

Safety

  • Gouging in welding refers to removing metal to prepare surfaces for better adhesion.
  • Improper gouging techniques can weaken structures, highlighting the importance of skill in trades.

Sports

  • In contact sports, 'gouging' describes illegal actions, like eye-gouging, which can cause serious injury.
  • Rules against gouging in sports underscore the focus on player safety and ethical competition.

Origin of 'gouging'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'goger' meaning 'to scoop out' or 'to dig out'.
  • Gouging has been connected to both tools (like a gouging chisel) and in contexts like pricing schemes.

The word 'gouging' originates from the Middle English term 'gouge', which itself derives from the Old French 'gauge', meaning to measure, but has evolved to mean to scoop or cut out. This evolution of meaning reflects the action of removing material to create a shape, particularly in woodworking and metalworking contexts. The transition from a precise definition related to measurement to a more action-oriented meaning corresponds with advancements in tool-making and fabrication techniques used by craftsmen throughout history. The term has also taken on additional connotations in modern usage, particularly in economics and commerce where 'gouging' is used to describe unethical practices of overcharging customers, especially during times of scarcity or crisis. This duality in meaning highlights the term's flexible application across different contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,846, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.