Bilge (?), n. [A different orthography of bulge, of same origin as belly. Cf. Belly, Bulge.]
1.
The protuberant part of a cask, which is usually in the middle.
2. Naut.
That part of a ship's hull or bottom which is broadest and most nearly flat, and on which she would rest if aground.
3.
Bilge water.
Bilge free Naut., stowed in such a way that the bilge is clear of everything; -- said of a cask. -- Bilge pump, a pump to draw the bilge water from the hold of a ship. -- Bilge water Naut., water which collects in the bilge or bottom of a ship or other vessel. It is often allowed to remain till it becomes very offensive. -- Bilge ways, the timbers which support the cradle of a ship upon the ways, and which slide upon the launching ways in launching the vessel.
© Webster 1913.
Bilge (?), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Bilged (); p. pr. & vb. n. Bilging.]
1. Naut.
To suffer a fracture in the bilge; to spring a leak by a fracture in the bilge.
2.
To bulge.
© Webster 1913.
Bilge, v. t.
1. Naut.
To fracture the bilge of, or stave in the bottom of (a ship or other vessel).
2.
To cause to bulge.
© Webster 1913. | 
