Definition

Describing something that is related to or resembles the bilge, which is the area of a ship where water and waste collect.

Example

The bilgy water in the ship's hold needed to be pumped out immediately.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a boat that looks really bilgy?

Yeah, I actually saw one last weekend at the marina.

It was so dirty and unkempt, right?

Absolutely! It definitely needs some serious cleaning.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'bilgy' originates from the word 'bilge' (from Middle English *bilge*, meaning the lowest part of a ship's hull where water collects) combined with the suffix '-y' (meaning characterized by). Therefore, 'bilgy' describes something that is characteristic of or related to bilge water, often implying something dirty or murky.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'bilge' as the part of a ship where dirty water collects, and remember that 'bilgy' means something that is dirty or murky, just like that water.

Visually Confused Words