kedge

,or kedger.

A small anchor used to keep a ship steady and clear from her bower-anchor while she rides in harbour, particularly at the turn of the tide. The kedge-anchors are also used to warp a ship from one part of a harbour to another. They are generally furnished with an iron stock, which is easily displaced for the convenience of stowing. The old English word kedge signified brisk, and they are generally run in to a quick step. (See anchor, warp.)

♦ To kedge. To warp a ship ahead, though the tide be contrary, by means of the kedge-anchor and hawser.