The spelling of the word "Dargue" may seem unusual, but it is actually quite simple when you examine its phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "dar," is pronounced with a long a sound, as in "car." The second syllable, "gue," is pronounced as "gweh" with a slight emphasis on the "w" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription for "Dargue" is /dɑrˈɡweɪ/. While the spelling may not be intuitive, with the right pronunciation, "Dargue" is easy to say and recognize.
Dargue is a term that is primarily used in the field of mining and extraction. It refers to a specific type of long, narrow underground passage or tunnel that is excavated in order to access and transport minerals, ores, or other valuable materials from deep within the earth. Often referred to as an adit, a dargue is typically constructed to follow the direction and inclination of the mineral deposit or ore body being worked on.
The term "dargue" is specifically used in the context of the mining industry in Australia, particularly in the state of Tasmania where it originated. The word is thought to have been derived from the Cornish word "dargoth" which means a narrow passage. While the concept of a dargue is similar to other underground tunnels used in mining, such as drifts or tunnels, it typically suggests a narrower, more confined space with a specific purpose of accessing minerals.
A dargue is typically excavated through various methods, such as drilling, blasting, or using mechanical diggers, depending on the geological conditions and the type of material being mined. Once the dargue has been created, it may serve as a main access point for miners to enter and exit the mine, as well as facilitate the transportation of extracted materials to the surface.
Overall, a dargue is a mining term that refers to a specific type of long, narrow underground passage or tunnel that is excavated to retrieve valuable minerals or ores from beneath the surface of the earth.
A day's work; a certain quantity of work.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.