ledge

Meanings

Noun

• A shelf on which articles may be laid; also, that which resembles such a shelf in form or use, as a projecting ridge or part, or a molding or edge in joinery.
• A shelf, ridge, or reef, of rocks.
• A layer or stratum.
• A lode; a limited mass of rock bearing valuable mineral.
• A (door or window) lintel.
• A cornice.
• A piece of timber to support the deck, placed athwartship between beams.
• A lege; a legend.
• A provincial or territorial legislature building.
• A provincial or territorial legislative assembly.

Verb

• To cause to have, or to develop, a ledge (during mining, canal construction, building, etc).

Origin

• From Middle English legge; usually considered to be from Middle English leggen, a variant of leyen.
• Shortening of legend.
• Shortening of legislature.