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Ledge Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ledge

[ledส’ ]

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

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

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Ledges are often used in building designs to create visual interest and architectural depth.
  • In skyscraper designs, ledges can serve as safety features and are often seen in the formation of balconies.
  • Historic castles frequently featured ledges for both aesthetic purposes and as defensive structures.

Environmental Science

  • Rock ledges provide significant habitats for various species, particularly birds and small mammals seeking shelter.
  • Cliff ledges are crucial environments for nesting seabirds, offering protection from predators.
  • In geology, ledges can indicate layers of sediment that have compacted over time, revealing Earth's history.

Pop Culture

  • Ledges often appear in action films, creating suspenseful moments where characters must navigate or escape dangerous heights.
  • Video games often feature ledges for players to jump onto or use for strategic advantages in gameplay.
  • In literature and poetry, a ledge can symbolize a point of decision or a precarious state of balance.

Safety and Climbing

  • Climbers often look for ledges as resting spots during challenging ascents.
  • Safety protocols in climbing stress the importance of staying away from unstable ledges to prevent falls.
  • Ledges are also used in rock climbing as key positions to secure handholds or footholds.

Origin of 'ledge'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'ledge' originates from the Old English 'lวฃg', which means 'to lie' or 'to lay down', hinting at its flat nature.
  • In Middle English, the term evolved, often associated with ledges used for storing or resting items.
  • Ledge is related to other words like 'ledgeway', which signifies a narrow path or projection.

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.