Ledge: meaning, definitions and examples

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ledge

 

[ledʒ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

on a mountain

a narrow horizontal surface projecting from a wall, cliff, or other surface

Synonyms

ridge, rim, shelf.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ledge

Can also refer to a narrow shelf or similar projection, often in man-made structures.

  • She placed the flower pot on the window ledge.
  • Books were scattered on the ledge of the old fireplace.
shelf

Can also mean a natural formation similar to a ledge, often found underwater or along coastlines.

  • The continental shelf extends several miles offshore.
  • Divers explored the shelf near the coral reef.
ridge

Used to define a long, narrow hilltop, mountain range, or any raised part of the Earth's surface.

  • We hiked along the ridge and enjoyed the view of the valley below.
  • The ridge of the mountain was covered in snow.
rim

Used to describe the edge or border of an object, often circular or curved ones like containers, glasses, or craters.

  • The coffee cup had a small chip on its rim.
  • We stood at the rim of the volcano, looking at the lava inside.

Examples of usage

  • The climber carefully edged along the narrow ledge.
  • She stood on the ledge, looking down at the valley below.
Context #2 | Noun

knowledge

a knowledge or understanding of a particular subject or fact

Synonyms

awareness, knowledge, understanding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ledge

A narrow shelf or projection, especially one on a wall or cliff, typically used in contexts related to geography, architecture, or safety hazards.

  • The mountain climber carefully placed his foot on the narrow ledge.
  • Books were neatly arranged on the ledge above the fireplace.
knowledge

Information, understanding, or skills acquired through learning or experience, typically used in educational or intellectual contexts.

  • His extensive knowledge of history impressed everyone in the room.
  • She has a deep knowledge of computer programming languages.
understanding

The ability to comprehend or grasp the meaning of something, often used in contexts involving relationships, communication, or the interpretation of complex ideas.

  • Her understanding of complex mathematical concepts made her an excellent tutor.
  • They had a mutual understanding about the terms of their agreement.
awareness

Understanding of a particular issue, situation, or fact, often used in contexts related to mental and emotional acknowledgment, social issues, or general consciousness.

  • Raising awareness about climate change is crucial for the future of our planet.
  • Her awareness of the social dynamics helped her navigate the situation gracefully.

Examples of usage

  • She has a vast ledge of historical facts.
  • His ledge of computer programming is impressive.

Translations

Translations of the word "ledge" in other languages:

🇵🇹 beiral

🇮🇳 कगार

🇩🇪 Kante

🇮🇩 tepi

🇺🇦 край

🇵🇱 krawędź

🇯🇵 

🇫🇷 rebord

🇪🇸 borde

🇹🇷 kenar

🇰🇷 가장자리

🇸🇦 حافة

🇨🇿 okraj

🇸🇰 okraj

🇨🇳 边缘

🇸🇮 rob

🇮🇸 brún

🇰🇿 шеті

🇬🇪 ზღვარი

🇦🇿 kənar

🇲🇽 borde

Etymology

The word 'ledge' originated from Middle English 'legge' which meant a shelf, ridge, or raised edge. It has been used since the 14th century to refer to a narrow horizontal surface projecting from a wall. In the context of knowledge or understanding, the use of 'ledge' dates back to the 18th century.

See also: ledger.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,865, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.