The word "kedges" is spelled with a hard "g" sound, despite the letter "g" usually having a soft sound when it appears before the letter "e". The reason for this is because "kedges" comes from the nautical term "kedge anchor", in which the "g" is pronounced hard. The IPA phonetic transcription for "kedges" is /ˈkɛdʒɪz/, with the "g" being represented by the letter "j" sound. This highlights the importance of understanding the origins and context of words when it comes to their spelling and pronunciation.
Kedges, as a verb, refers to the action of using a small anchor, known as a kedge anchor, to provide a secondary or auxiliary means of propulsion for a vessel. When a ship is unable to rely solely on its sails or main engine to maneuver or move forward, it may employ a kedge anchor to assist in pulling or towing the vessel. This technique is commonly used in situations where a ship is stuck in shallow or confined waters, or when it needs to change its course swiftly.
As a noun, "kedges" can also refer to multiple forms of kedge anchors used on a ship. These anchors are typically lightweight and easy to handle, as they are deployed by hand rather than by machinery. They are designed to be carried by the ship, often as a spare or emergency anchor, and are usually stored in a specific place on board called the kedges' locker.
The use of kedges has been prevalent throughout maritime history, with its roots traced back to ancient times. Today, although the reliance on kedges has diminished due to advancements in ship propulsion systems, they continue to be an important tool in certain situations, such as during rescues or in certain boating activities.