BARGE POLE Meaning and
Definition
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A barge pole is a long, sturdy pole, typically made of wood, that is used to maneuver or propel a barge or a narrowboat on a canal or river. It usually has a length between 10 to 20 feet and a diameter of roughly 2 to 3 inches. The term "barge pole" specifically refers to the type of pole used for barges and narrowboats, as opposed to other types of boats or vessels.
The primary purpose of a barge pole is to provide leverage and control while pushing or fending off from the riverbank or structures in the water. It allows individuals on board to physically push against the riverbed or the water's edge, assisting in moving the boat forward or keeping it stabilized. In some cases, the pole may also be used to steer the barge by pushing against the riverbank or obstacles in the water.
Due to its length and durability, a barge pole is essential for navigating narrow canals, locks, or shallow areas where traditional propulsion methods may not be suitable. It enables operators to have direct contact with the water or the riverbed, providing a manual alternative in situations where engines or oars may not suffice.
In a figurative sense, the expression "wouldn't touch it with a barge pole" is often used to indicate a strong aversion, disinterest, or reluctance towards something or someone. It implies a refusal to engage or associate with a particular thing or individual due to perceived unfavorable qualities or risks.
Common Misspellings for BARGE POLE
- varge pole
- narge pole
- harge pole
- garge pole
- bzrge pole
- bsrge pole
- bwrge pole
- bqrge pole
- baege pole
- badge pole
- bafge pole
- batge pole
- ba5ge pole
- ba4ge pole
- barfe pole
- barve pole
- barbe pole
- barhe pole
- barye pole
Etymology of BARGE POLE
The word "barge pole" is a compound noun that combines "barge" and "pole".
"Barge" comes from the Old English word "beorcgian", meaning "to protect, shelter, or safeguard". In Middle English, it evolved to "barge", referring to a large, flat-bottomed boat used for carrying cargo on rivers and canals. The term was borrowed from Old French "hache-barge", which literally means "a boat for carrying hatchets".
"Pole" comes from the Old English word "pol", which refers to a "long, slender piece of wood". It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word "palu" and is related to the Old Norse "pāll" and the Dutch "paal".
The phrase "barge pole" is often used in the expression "wouldn't touch (someone or something) with a barge pole".
Idioms with the word BARGE POLE
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wouldn't touch something/someone with a barge pole
The idiom "wouldn't touch something/someone with a barge pole" means to want absolutely nothing to do with something or someone. It signifies a strong aversion or dislike towards the mentioned thing or person. It implies that one would not even consider getting involved or associating themselves with it under any circumstances.
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I wouldn't touch with a barge pole
The idiom "I wouldn't touch with a barge pole" means that one wants absolutely nothing to do with something or someone. It implies that the thing or person in question is totally undesirable, unappealing, or potentially dangerous, and one wishes to keep a safe and considerable distance from it.
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not touch (someone or something) with a barge pole
The idiom "not touch (someone or something) with a barge pole" is used to express extreme aversion or unwillingness to have any association or involvement with someone or something. It implies that the person or thing in question is considered undesirable, dangerous, or not worth the attention or effort, to the extent that one would not even want to come into contact with them using a long pole (such as a barge pole, a long pole used to push barges). It conveys a strong sense of avoidance or rejection.
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wouldn't touch sth with a barge pole
The idiom "wouldn't touch something with a barge pole" is used to express strong aversion or extreme reluctance towards getting involved in a certain situation, person, or thing. It implies that the speaker would not consider or want any association with the mentioned item or act at all, emphasizing their strong disinterest or distrust.
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I wouldn't touch (something or someone) with a barge pole
The idiomatic expression "I wouldn't touch (something or someone) with a barge pole" means that the speaker strongly disapproves or has no interest in being associated with that thing/situation/person. It implies a sense of extreme avoidance, avoidance of interaction, or a lack of desire to be involved due to perceived distaste, danger, or untrustworthiness.
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wouldn't touch sth with a tenfoot pole, at wouldn't touch sth with a barge pole
The idiom "wouldn't touch something with a ten-foot pole" (also known as "wouldn't touch something with a barge pole") conveys that someone strongly dislikes or wants to avoid being associated with a particular person, thing, or situation. It suggests a strong aversion or rejection towards the mentioned subject and implies that it is something they would go to great lengths to avoid.
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I wouldn't touch sb/sth with a barge pole.
The phrase "I wouldn't touch sb/sth with a barge pole" means that you have a strong aversion to or dislike for someone or something, and you would never consider getting involved with them or it.
Similar spelling word for BARGE POLE
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