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

Site preparation for a second fab is underway Beyond the first fab is a ledge where the ground is higher, and site work is already underway to clear a space for the second fab. —Angela Palermo, Idaho Statesman, 30 May 2026

Many of the rooms at this ultra-luxe hideaway dangle from rocky ledges, are sandwiched between cliff crevices or are embedded like caves in the interior of the mountains, connecting guests intimately with the landscape. —Lauren Keith, Robb Report, 30 May 2026

Trees with sturdy branches, dense shrubs, porch ledges, and even hanging planters may all become nesting sites. —Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 29 May 2026

The men could be seen sitting on a rocky ledge surrounded by floodwater and wearing headlamps. —Kocha Olarn, CNN Money, 27 May 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