gorge - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
gorge Word Meanings
- a deep ravine or narrow valley
- to eat a large amount greedily
- to fill completely
gorge Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
gorge Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɡɔːdʒ/
US
/ɡɔrdʒ/
gorge Word Etymology
From Old French 'gorge' meaning 'throat' (from Latin 'gurges' meaning 'whirlpool'). Imagine a deep gorge resembling a throat carved by a river over eons, where one might gorge on food after a long hike down its steep sides.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Gorge is a versatile word with two main uses. As a noun, it means a deep ravine or narrow valley, often with steep walls and a river at the bottom. As a verb, gorge means to eat a large amount greedily, or to fill something to capacity. When describing scenery, a gorge conveys drama and depth, a sense of scale that emphasizes the throat-like passage between slopes. Metaphorically, to gorge on food highlights indulgence or lack of restraint. The etymology traces gorge from Old French, linked to the throat, toward the Latin gurges meaning whirlpool, underscoring a passage that can both swallow a person and a feast.
Usage Reminders
- Use gorge for dramatic landscapes (noun) and for overeating (verb). Do not confuse with gorgeously (adjective). Remember the throat imagery in both senses. When talking about places, think of narrow, steep-walled canyons with a river. In everyday talk, prefer 'to stuff oneself' for informal overeating. The noun often appears with scenery verbs like 'cut into' or 'rise up beside'. Practice with both senses in one short paragraph.
Common Misconceptions
- Gorge always means a physical throat; it does not always imply eating.
- Gorge and gorgeously are related; gorgeously is an adjective, not a verb or noun form of gorge.
- All gorges are narrow canyons; some canyons are wide but still called gorges in casual use.
- Gorge as a verb only refers to eating; it can also mean to fill or cram something thoroughly.
- The word is only used in outdoorsy or natural contexts; it fits everyday scenes too.
Thinking Differences
English tends to pair gorge with both nature imagery and bodily metaphors (throat, passage). Learners often mix up the noun and verb across contexts.
Learning Tips
- Practice both noun and verb senses in short descriptions.
- Visualize a gorge to remember the landscape meaning.
- Use go-to phrases like 'hiked along the gorge' for scenery.
- When you mean overeating, pair gorge with adverbs like 'greedily' or 'excessively'.
- Learn synonyms: canyon (landform), stuff oneself (informal).
- Recall the etymology to reinforce the throat imagery.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'gorge'?
A.A type of clothing
B.To eat a large amount of food greedily
C.A tool used for gardening
D.A musical instrument
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'gorge' correctly?
A.I decided to gorge all my old books on the shelf.
B.She wore a gorge dress to the party.
C.After the hike, we sat down to gorge ourselves on the feast.
D.The children love to gorge on crayons at school.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'gorge'?
A.Store
B.Devour
C.Sift
D.Decorate
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'gorge'?
A.Fast
B.Abstain
C.Nourish
D.Refill
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might gorge?
A.During the buffet, people often have a hard time resisting the urge to gorge on dessert.
B.My friend always skips meals to stay healthy.
C.I prefer to eat small portions throughout the day.
D.She went to the store to buy some groceries.
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