dredge
1 synonym for dredge, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A machine or device used to scoop up material from the bottom of a body of water.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A machine or device used to scoop up material from the bottom of a body of water.
“The harbour authority sent out a dredge to clear the silted channel.”
2. verb
To clear or deepen a waterway by scooping out mud, sand, or debris.
“They dredged the river to allow larger ships through.”
How to use dredge
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
dredge a river
dredge up the past
dredge up memories
Etymology
Possibly from Scots dreg-boat ("dredging boat"), or from a Middle Dutch word for a drag-net, ultimately linked to "drag."
Full origin of dredge →Frequently asked questions
What does “dredge” mean?
The word “dredge” means a machine or device used to scoop up material from the bottom of a body of water. In plain terms, to scoop material from a riverbed or seabed, or figuratively, to dig up an old, unwanted memory.
How do you pronounce “dredge”?
“Dredge” is pronounced drehj (/dɹɛd͡ʒ/ in IPA).
How do you use “dredge” in a sentence?
Here is “dredge” used in a sentence: “The harbour authority sent out a dredge to clear the silted channel.”
What part of speech is “dredge”?
Depending on how it is used, “dredge” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “dredge” come from?
The word “dredge” comes from Dutch. Possibly from Scots dreg-boat ("dredging boat"), or from a Middle Dutch word for a drag-net, ultimately linked to "drag.".
How many meanings does “dredge” have?
“Dredge” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a machine or device used to scoop up material from the bottom of a body of water.
