sledge
UK: sledʒ | US: sledʒ
n. a vehicle on runners for travelling over snow or ice, typically pulled by animals or a motor
vt. to transport or travel by sledge
n. (British) a heavy hammer, often wielded with both hands
The word "sledge" originates from Middle Dutch "sleedse," meaning a vehicle dragged over snow or ice. The root "sled" is shared with Old English "slidan" (to slide), reflecting the smooth, gliding motion of the vehicle. The British meaning of "heavy hammer" (short for "sledgehammer") emerged later, likely due to the hammer's forceful, sliding impact.
The explorers used a dog-drawn sledge to cross the Arctic.
They sledge supplies to remote research stations in winter.
The blacksmith swung the sledge to shape the red-hot metal.
Children laughed as they raced down the hill on their sledges.
In the 19th century, sledges were vital for transporting goods in snowy regions.