verge
verge Lexical Profile
verge Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An extreme limit or point beyond which something specified is about to happen or take place.
"After years of intensive research, the scientists were finally on the verge of a major medical breakthrough."
British A grass edging or border along the side of a road or path.
"Wildflowers bloomed brightly along the grassy verge of the country lane."
A ceremonial rod or staff carried before a bishop, dean, or other dignitary as an emblem of office or authority.
"The cathedral verger walked solemnly at the head of the procession, carrying the silver-tipped verge."
• verb
To approach closely or come near to a specified quality, state, or condition (usually followed by 'on' or 'upon').
"His extraordinary dedication to the archival project sometimes verged on obsession."
To incline, slope, or tend in a particular direction or toward a certain state.
"The afternoon sun was already verging toward the western horizon as we reached the camp."
• Rhymes for verge
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
The noun derives via Old French from the Latin 'virga', meaning a slender green twig or rod, which evolved to mean a ceremonial staff of office, the jurisdictional bounds represented by that staff, and eventually any outer border. The verb sense of inclining or tending toward something comes separately from the Latin 'vergere', meaning to bend, turn, or incline.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.