What does dredge mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈdrɛdʒ/🔊

Part of Speech

Verb or Noun

Definition

As a verb, to dredge means to remove or search for something, typically from a body of water, using a dredge or other equipment. As a noun, a dredge refers to a machine or device used for this purpose.

Examples

• The company will dredge the harbor to deepen the waterway.
• The fishermen used a dredge to catch oysters in the bay.

Synonyms

• Excavate
• Clear

Antonyms

• Fill
• Block

Additional Information

Dredging is a common practice in various industries, including shipping, construction, and mining. It can also be used to remove pollutants or debris from waterways.

The term “dredge” can also refer to a type of cooking vessel, particularly in Southern American cuisine. However, this usage is less common than the primary definition.

It’s worth noting that while dredging can be an important process for various industries, it can also have negative environmental impacts if not done properly.

Eymology

The word “dredge” has its roots in the Old English word “drægan,” which means “to draw” or “to pull.”

Usage Notes

When using the word “dredge,” it’s essential to consider the context and ensure that the intended meaning is clear. In some cases, using synonyms or providing additional explanation may be necessary to avoid confusion.

Cultural References

The term “dredge” has appeared in various forms of media, including literature and film. For example, in the novel “The Shipping News” by Annie Proulx, the protagonist works on a dredge in Newfoundland.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Dredge up the past”: This phrase means to revisit or bring up memories or events from the past.

Related Words or Phrases

• “Drag”: This verb means to pull or haul something, often with force.
• “Clear”: This verb means to remove or eliminate something, often to make way for something else.

Collocations

• “Dredge up something”: This phrase means to bring up or revisit something, often from the past.
• “Dredge through something”: This phrase means to search or navigate through something, often with difficulty.

Frequency of Use

The word “dredge” is not commonly used in everyday conversation. However, it is more frequently used in specific industries or contexts where the process of dredging is relevant.

Common Misspellings

• “Dredg”
• “Dreg”