The spelling of the phrase "dredges up" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word "dredges" is pronounced as /drɛʤɪz/ with stress on the first syllable. The vowel sound in the first syllable is a short e, while the second syllable has a soft g sound. The preposition "up" is pronounced as /ʌp/ with a short u sound and no stress. Together, the phrase means to bring something to the surface, typically a memory or emotion.
The phrase "dredges up" refers to the act of bringing something back into one's conscious awareness, usually a memory, feeling, or past experience, often with the intention of discussing or addressing it. This term is commonly used to describe the process of recalling or retrieving information or emotions that were buried or forgotten.
In a literal sense, dredging refers to the act of digging or excavating, often done in water bodies to remove mud, silt, or debris from the bottom. In a figurative sense, when we say someone "dredges up" something, we imply that they are metaphorically excavating or digging out something from the depths of their mind or memory.
"Dredges up" is frequently used to describe situations where an individual revisits and brings to the forefront of their thoughts or conversations some past event or feeling that had been pushed aside or repressed. It typically implies a sense of discomfort or unease associated with revisiting the dredged-up content.
This term is often used in therapeutic or psychological contexts, as therapists may encourage individuals to "dredge up" buried emotions or memories during counseling sessions to facilitate healing and personal growth. However, it can also be used in everyday conversations to describe someone unexpectedly recalling a memory or resurrecting a forgotten topic, often leading to an emotional response or a need for discussion and resolution.
The etymology of the phrase "dredges up" can be understood by examining the origins of the two words that constitute it: "dredges" and "up".
1. Dredges: The word "dredge" originated in the 16th century, derived from the Middle Dutch word "dregghe" or Old English "drecge", which referred to a type of fishing net or apparatus used to scoop or drag things from the bottom of bodies of water, such as rivers or lakes. Over time, the term "dredge" expanded in meaning to include the act of bringing something up from the depths or uncovering things that were hidden or forgotten.
2. Up: The word "up" developed from Old English "ūp", which signifies higher or elevated in position, or in a direction opposite to that of gravity.