ledge

noun

ˈlej 

1

: a raised or projecting edge or molding intended to protect or check

a window ledge

2

: an underwater ridge or reef especially near the shore

3

a

: a narrow flat surface or shelf

especially : one that projects from a wall of rock

We rappelled down the cliff and reached the ledge.

b

: rock that is solid or continuous enough to form ledges : bedrock

the field was full of ledge

4

: lode, vein

ledgy

ˈle-jē 

adjective

Examples of ledge in a Sentence

birds perched on the ledge of a building

a ledge on the side of the mountain

Recent Examples on the Web

Pool toys were strewn about on the ledge. — Christina Perrier, InStyle, 26 June 2026

There are books and wine bottles as decor on the ledges, and a glow of warm lighting. — Anna Grace Lee, Vogue, 2 July 2026

Photos of the room show headpieces on ledges flanking the fireplace about 6 feet off the floor. — Bay Area News Group, Mercury News, 2 July 2026

That often consists of a divider in the main freezer compartment, a ledge for very small items, and a shallow drawer at the top. — Amy Panos, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English legge bar of a gate

First Known Use

1535, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for ledge

• dredge
• edge
• hedge
• pledge
• sedge
• sledge
• wedge
• allege
• straightedge

Kids Definition

ledge

noun

ˈlej 

1

: a projecting ridge or raised edge along a surface

2

: an underwater ridge or reef especially near the shore

3

: a narrow flat surface or shelf

especially : one that sticks out from a wall of rock