barge
UK[bɑːdʒ]US[bɑːrdʒ]
n
a long flat-bottomed boat for carrying freight on canals and rivers
n
a large ornamental boat used for ceremonies or pleasure
v
to move forcefully or roughly
Etymology
the word 'barge' entered english from old french in the late middle ages, referring to a small seagoing vessel. its lineage traces back to late latin 'barga', a term of obscure origin, though some scholars suggest a possible link to ancient egyptian or celtic roots for 'boat'. the semantic core has consistently denoted a type of watercraft, with the specific meaning narrowing in english to refer to flat-bottomed freight carriers on inland waterways. the modern verb sense, meaning to push or move clumsily, is a figurative extension from the boat's slow, heavy movement through water.
Analysis
this word is a simplex form. it is a loanword from old french 'barge', which derived from late latin 'barga'. its ultimate origin is uncertain but may be related to a mediterranean substrate language. its functional role is as a complete lexical unit.
Examples
the coal was transported down the river on a large barge.
the royal barge was decorated with gold and flags for the procession.
he barged into the meeting without knocking.