wedge
UK: wɛdʒ | US: wɛdʒ
n. a piece of material (e.g., wood or metal) with a triangular shape, used to split, lift, or secure objects
vt. to fix or force apart using a wedge
The word "wedge" traces back to Old English wecg, meaning "a wedge-shaped tool," derived from Proto-Germanic wagjaz. The root wed- implies forceful separation or insertion, reflecting the tool's function. The suffix -ge (now simplified to -e) marks it as a noun. Over time, the spelling evolved to "wedge," but the core idea of splitting or securing objects remains unchanged.
He used a wooden wedge to keep the door open.
The rock was split cleanly with a steel wedge.
She wedged her foot in the gap to prevent it from closing.
A wedge of cheese lay on the cutting board.
The protesters tried to wedge themselves between the police barriers.