wedge

[wej]

wedge Definition

• 1. a piece of wood, metal, or some other material having one thick end and tapering to a thin edge, that is driven between two objects or parts of an object to secure or separate them
• 2. a shoe with a heel narrower than the sole

Using wedge: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "wedge" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He used a wedge to keep the door open.

• Example

  The carpenter used a wedge to split the log.

• Example

  She wore a pair of wedges to the party.

• Example

  The company's profits are being squeezed by rising costs and falling prices, creating a wedge between management and labor.

wedge Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for wedge

• block
• cuneiform
• shim
• chisel
• splitter

Antonyms for wedge

• unite
• combine

Phrases with wedge

• thin end of the wedge

  the beginning of a process that will lead to worse developments

  Example

  Allowing people to smoke in the office is just the thin end of the wedge.

• drive a wedge between

  to cause disagreement or hostility between two people or groups

  Example

  The rumors were spread to drive a wedge between the two friends.

• wedge issue

  a political issue that divides a group of people

  Example

  Abortion has become a wedge issue in the current election.

Origins of wedge

from Old English 'wecg', meaning 'something driven in'

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Summary: wedge in Brief

A 'wedge' [wej] is a piece of material, such as wood or metal, that tapers from a thick end to a thin edge. It is used to secure or separate objects, as in 'He used a wedge to keep the door open.' 'Wedge' also refers to a type of shoe with a narrow heel. Phrases like 'thin end of the wedge' describe the beginning of a negative process, while 'drive a wedge between' means to cause disagreement. 'Wedge issue' refers to a political topic that divides people.