dredge
UK: dredʒ | US: dredʒ
vt. 1. To remove mud, sand, or debris from the bottom of a body of water using a machine or tool.
vt. 2. To bring up or uncover something hidden or forgotten (often used figuratively).
n. A machine or tool used for dredging.
The word "dredge" likely stems from Middle English dreg- or drag-, influenced by the action of dragging or scooping material from underwater. Its exact origin is unclear, but it may share roots with Old English dragan ("to draw, pull"), reflecting the mechanical process of hauling sediment. Over time, it evolved into a specialized term for excavation in waterways and later gained figurative use (e.g., "dredging up memories").
The crew used a dredge to clear silt from the harbor.
Archaeologists dredged the riverbed for ancient artifacts.
Her question dredged up painful memories from his past.
The environmental impact of dredging must be carefully assessed.
A mechanical dredge is essential for maintaining navigable channels.