student asking question

Does "wedge" mean "a piece"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

When used as a "wedge of something", yes! Specifically, a wedge is a (usually) thin section of a larger object. Thicker wedges exist, but there are limitations to what one can call a wedge. If we take a potato as an example, anything up to a potato slices in four pieces is a wedge, but once the angle of the cut piece is larger than 90 degrees, that wouldn't be called a wedge anymore. The other meaning of a wedge is an object, usually a piece of wood, metal, etc. having one thick end and becoming thinner towards its other side. This "wedge" is driven between two objects or parts of an object to secure or separate them. The word can also be used as a verb for something being forced into a narrow space. Ex: I like cocktails that are served with a lime or lemon wedge. Ex: Potato wedges are delicious, especially with steak.

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