ledge
UK[lɛdʒ]US[lɛdʒ]
n
A narrow horizontal shelf projecting from a wall, cliff, or other surface.
n
A cut or projection forming a shelf on a cliff or rock wall.
n
A ridge or projection on the side of a rock or mountain.
Etymology
The word 'ledge' emerged in Middle English as legge, likely derived from the Middle English verb leggen, meaning "to lay." This verb itself originates from Old English lecgan. The conceptual link is from the action of laying something down to the resulting object—a shelf or layer that has been laid down or projects out. Over time, the term specialized to refer specifically to a narrow, projecting shelf, particularly on a wall or a rock face. Its journey reflects a common pattern where a general action verb gives rise to a noun denoting a resultant physical form.
Analysis
The word 'ledge' is a simplex word of Middle English origin. It is not productively formed from smaller, identifiable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
She placed the vase carefully on the window ledge.
The climber found a secure handhold on a narrow ledge.
A bird built its nest on a rocky ledge overlooking the sea.