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Kedge Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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kedge

[kɛdʒ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

nautical

A small anchor used for warping or kedging a ship.

Synonyms

anchor, grapnel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
kedge

Used in nautical terms to describe a small anchor used to reposition or maneuver a ship in specific circumstances like calm waters or tight spaces.

  • The captain decided to kedge the ship closer to the shore.
  • We used a kedge to turn the boat around.
anchor

Commonly used to describe a device that holds a ship in place. It also can mean anything that provides stability or confidence in a general sense.

  • We dropped the anchor and stayed for the night.
  • Her family is her anchor in difficult times.
grapnel

A smaller type of anchor with multiple hooks, often used for securing or retrieving objects. Commonly used in rescue operations or small boats.

  • The diver used a grapnel to retrieve the lost equipment.
  • He threw the grapnel onto the deck to secure the dinghy.

Examples of usage

  • The sailors used a kedge to help maneuver the ship into the harbor.
  • She dropped the kedge overboard to help the ship stay in place.
Context #2 | Verb

nautical

To move a ship by hauling on a kedge anchor.

Synonyms

drag, warp.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
kedge

Kedge is a nautical term specifically used for moving a ship by means of an anchor. This technique is often employed in situations where a ship needs to navigate through tight or shallow waters.

  • The captain ordered the crew to kedge the ship away from the sandbank.
  • They decided to kedge the boat closer to the shore.
warp

Warp is another nautical term that relates to moving a ship by using a rope and anchor, much like kedge. However, warp can also describe something becoming distorted or twisted, depending on the context.

  • They warped the ship into the dock.
  • The wood started to warp due to the intense heat.
drag

Drag can refer to pulling something along a surface with effort. It's commonly used in everyday conversations and can also have a slightly negative connotation, suggesting difficulty or resistance.

  • She had to drag the heavy suitcase up the stairs.
  • The broken car was dragging along the road.

Examples of usage

  • They kedge the ship closer to shore.
  • After kedging the vessel to the dock, they secured it in place.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Nautical Terms

  • Kedging is commonly practiced in shallow waters where larger anchors can't be used effectively.
  • Sailors often kedge when they need to move a vessel closer to shore or avoid obstacles.
  • The technique involves lowering an anchor from the boat and then pulling it to move the vessel.

Historical Context

  • In the Age of Sail, kedging was a vital skill for navigating narrow channels and avoiding perilous rocks.
  • The term comes from the Middle English 'cadge', meaning to set an anchor.
  • Kedging played an important role during naval battles, allowing ships to maneuver stealthily.

Cultural Significance

  • Kedging has been depicted in various maritime art and literature, showcasing the ingenuity of sailors.
  • The technique forms a part of traditional seamanship courses, emphasizing teamwork and strategy.
  • Songs and stories have celebrated the cleverness of sailors who could adeptly use kedge to escape danger.

Modern Usage

  • Today, kedging is still taught in sailing schools, reinforcing the importance of skills in seamanship.
  • In addition to traditional vessels, kedging is sometimes used by modern recreational boats in challenging conditions.
  • The concept has found its way into sailing competition strategies where maneuverability is key.

Origin of 'kedge'

The word 'kedge' originated from Middle English 'kaggen', meaning 'to hook or fasten'. It was first used in the nautical sense in the 17th century to refer to a small anchor used for warping or moving a ship. The practice of kedging has been an essential part of maritime navigation for centuries, allowing ships to maneuver in tight spaces or adverse conditions.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,587, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.