Gouge

Noun

Definition: A chisel with a concave blade, used for carving or cutting grooves in wood or other materials.

Synonyms: Chisel, Scoop, Scoop out

Antonyms: Fill, Patch

Examples:
  • The carpenter used a gouge to carve intricate designs on the wooden chair.
  • The sculptor used a gouge to shape the stone into a smooth curve.
Mnemonics:
  • "Gouge" sounds like "gouge out," which can help remember its meaning as a tool for carving or cutting grooves out of materials.

Verb

Definition: To make a groove or indentation in (something) by cutting deeply.

Synonyms: Cut, Groove, Incise

Antonyms: Fill, Repair

Examples:
  • The thief gouged a hole in the wall to gain entry into the house.
  • She accidentally gouged the table with the sharp edge of a knife.
Mnemonics:
  • "Gouge" can be associated with cutting or deeply indenting something, similar to the action performed by the verb.

Etymology:

Origin:

From Old French "gouge" meaning "gullet, throat" or "a tool with a curved blade," which ultimately comes from Late Latin "gubia" meaning a "gouge" or "chisel."

Historical Usage:

The word "gouge" has been used since Middle English times and has retained its meaning as a tool for cutting grooves in wood or other materials.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Price gouging"

Explanation:

Refers to the act of charging excessively high prices for goods or services, especially during times of crisis or high demand.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Gouge refers only to a tool for cutting grooves in wood.

Explanation:

While one meaning of "gouge" does refer to a specific type of tool for cutting grooves, it can also be used as a verb to describe the act of making deep indentations or grooves in any material.

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