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
- 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.
- "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
- 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.
- "Gouge" can be associated with cutting or deeply indenting something, similar to the action performed by the verb.
Etymology:
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:
"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:
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.