How Do You Spell KENTLEDGE?

Pronunciation: [kˈɛntə͡ld͡ʒ] (IPA)

The word "Kentledge" is spelled with a unique combination of consonants and vowels. It is pronounced /ˈkɛntlɪdʒ/ and is used to describe pieces of pig iron or lead that are used as ballast in boats. The phonetic transcription of the word shows that the first syllable is stressed, and the final "ge" is pronounced as "dʒ." The "t" and "l" sounds are paired in the middle of the word, creating a distinct sound. The spelling of "Kentledge" reflects the historical origins of the word and its use in the shipping industry.

KENTLEDGE Meaning and Definition

1. Kentledge is a noun that refers to a heavy material, such as pig iron, used for ballast in ships or as a counterweight in cranes. Derived from the Old English word "kentling" meaning a lump of metal, kentledge is commonly used within the construction and maritime industries.

   In the context of shipbuilding, kentledge serves as ballast to improve stability, prevent the ship from capsizing, and adjust its trim. It is typically placed in the keel or lower compartments of a vessel to lower its center of gravity and provide balance. Kentledge can be adjusted to suit the specific requirements of a ship through the addition or removal of the material.

   In the field of construction, kentledge finds its application as a temporary counterweight in cranes during their installation or maintenance. The weight of the kentledge compensates for the force exerted by the crane's load, ensuring the crane remains stable and prevents it from tipping over.

   Kentledge is often made from pig iron due to its high density, which allows for greater weight per volume. However, it can also be made from other dense materials such as lead or concrete. The material is generally supplied in standardized blocks or cylindrical shapes for ease of transportation and installation.

   Overall, kentledge is a vital component in maintaining stability and balance in ships and cranes, playing a crucial role in ensuring their safe operation.

2. Pigs of iron laid on the floor of a ship for ballast.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for KENTLEDGE

• jentledge
• mentledge
• lentledge
• oentledge
• ientledge
• kwntledge
• ksntledge
• kdntledge
• krntledge
• k4ntledge
• k3ntledge
• kebtledge
• kemtledge
• kejtledge
• kehtledge
• kenrledge
• kenfledge
• kengledge
• kenyledge

Etymology of KENTLEDGE

The word "Kentledge" has a nautical origin and is derived from Old French and Middle English.

In Old French, the term "cantelage" referred to the action of ballasting a ship. It comes from the verb "cantailler", which meant to load or ballast. This term eventually evolved into "kentelage" in Middle English.

The word "kentledge" specifically refers to pig or scrap iron used as ballast in a ship. It was commonly used in the 17th and 18th centuries when iron was a popular choice for ballasting due to its weight and availability. The iron was often placed in the lower part of the ship, known as the kentledge, to provide stability and balance.

Overall, the term "kentledge" originated from nautical practices and has evolved to describe a specific type of ballast material used in ships.

Plural form of KENTLEDGE is KENTLEDGES