The word "gouge" is spelled with six letters, but the pronunciation is more complex. The phonetic transcription in IPA is /ɡaʊdʒ/, which shows that the initial sound is a hard g followed by the diphthong ow, and finished with the fricative sound of j. The silent -e at the end of the word indicates that the vowel in the word is long. The spelling of gouge may be tricky, but the phonetic transcription makes it easier to understand the pronunciation.
Gouge is a verb that can be defined as the action of forcefully or roughly scooping or digging out material from a surface or object, often using a sharp or pointed instrument such as a chisel, knife, or even fingers. It implies the act of forcefully and aggressively extracting or creating a hole or indentation by digging into something.
The term "gouge" can also refer to the act of obtaining or extracting a high price or excessive amount of money from someone, especially through deceitful or unfair means. In this context, it suggests taking advantage of someone's vulnerability or ignorance to extract an exorbitant sum.
As a noun, "gouge" can refer to the tool or instrument used for gouging, typically featuring a sharpened edge or point. It can also be used to describe the resulting indentation, groove, or hole that has been produced by gouging.
Additionally, "gouge" can occasionally be used informally to describe sharp criticism or cutting remarks, meant to hurt or provoke others, often characterized by its intensity and directness.
Overall, "gouge" encompasses various meanings involving forceful extraction, digging, or creating holes, as well as the act of deceitfully extracting excessive money or providing sharp criticism. The term encompasses both literal and figurative usage, highlighting the forceful and often negative connotations associated with extracting, digging, or sharp remarks.
A strong longitudinally curved chisel used in operation on bone.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• A rounded hollow chisel for cutting channels or grooves in wood or stone.
• To scoop out as with a gouge; to force out, as the eye, with the thumb or finger.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "gouge" has its roots in Middle English and Old French. Its etymology can be traced back to the Old French verb "gouger", meaning "to gouge out" or "to scoop out". This, in turn, originated from the Late Latin word "guttire", which meant "to slit" or "to cut open". The word ultimately finds its origin in the Latin word "gutta", which translates to "drop" or "teardrop". Over time, the term evolved to refer to a chisel-like tool used for cutting or scooping out materials, particularly in woodworking and masonry. It also developed figurative meanings such as cheating or taking advantage of someone, likely derived from the action of making forceful or excessive cuts.