Definition

Water that collects in the lowest part of a ship, often mixed with oil and waste, or foolish talk.

Example

The crew had to pump out the bilgewater to keep the ship afloat.

Conversation

I heard a funny story about a sailor who kept getting stuck in bilgewater during his adventures.

That sounds ridiculous! How did he manage that?

He wasn't very skilled, so he always ended up in the worst situations, like slipping into the bilgewater.

I guess some people just attract trouble, huh?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bilgewater is formed from "bilge" (from Middle English *bilge*, meaning the lowest part of a ship's hull) and "water" (meaning a liquid). The term refers to the dirty water that collects in the bilge of a ship, often considered worthless or foul.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'lowest part of a ship' ('bilge') where 'dirty water' collects, helping you remember that bilgewater refers to the unwanted water found in that area.

Visually Confused Words