Sledge
A sled, sledge, or sleigh is a land vehicle with a smooth underside or possessing a separate body supported by two or more smooth, relatively narrow, longitudinal runners that travels by sliding across a surface. Most commonly sleds are used on snow or ice, but in certain cases they may be used on any surfaces, especially on ones with relatively low friction, such as sand or wet grass. They may be used to transport passengers, cargo, or both. Shades of meaning differentiating the three terms often reflect regional variations depending on historical uses and prevailing climate.
In Britain sledge is the general term, and more common than sled. Toboggan is sometimes used synonymously with sledge but more often to refer to a particular type of sledge without runners. Sleigh refers to a moderate to large-sized, usually open-topped vehicle to carry passengers or goods, and typically drawn by horses or dogs. In Scandinavia particularly a sleigh may also be drawn by reindeer, as for Father Christmas.
In American usage sled remains the general term but often implies a smaller device, often for recreational use. Sledge implies a heavier sled used for moving freight or massive objects (syn. “stone boat”). Sleigh refers more specifically than in Britain to a vehicle which is essentially a cold-season alternative to a carriage or wagon and has seating for passengers; what can be called a dog-sleigh in Britain is known only as a dog-sled in North America.
In Australia, where there is limited snow, sleigh and sledge are given equal preference in local parlance.
Sled
A sled, sledge, or sleigh is a land vehicle with a smooth underside or possessing a separate body supported by two or more smooth, relatively narrow, longitudinal runners that travels by sliding across a surface. Most commonly sleds are used on snow or ice, but in certain cases they may be used on any surfaces, especially on ones with relatively low friction, such as sand or wet grass. They may be used to transport passengers, cargo, or both. Shades of meaning differentiating the three terms often reflect regional variations depending on historical uses and prevailing climate.
In Britain sledge is the general term, and more common than sled. Toboggan is sometimes used synonymously with sledge but more often to refer to a particular type of sledge without runners. Sleigh refers to a moderate to large-sized, usually open-topped vehicle to carry passengers or goods, and typically drawn by horses or dogs. In Scandinavia particularly a sleigh may also be drawn by reindeer, as for Father Christmas.
In American usage sled remains the general term but often implies a smaller device, often for recreational use. Sledge implies a heavier sled used for moving freight or massive objects (syn. “stone boat”). Sleigh refers more specifically than in Britain to a vehicle which is essentially a cold-season alternative to a carriage or wagon and has seating for passengers; what can be called a dog-sleigh in Britain is known only as a dog-sled in North America.
In Australia, where there is limited snow, sleigh and sledge are given equal preference in local parlance.
Sledge (noun)
A heavy, long handled maul or hammer used to drive stakes, wedges, etc.
Sledge (noun)
A low sled drawn by animals, typically on snow, ice or grass.
“The sledge ran far better upon the ice; I cannot say the same for the dogs.”
Sledge (noun)
any type of sled or sleigh.
Sledge (noun)
A card game resembling all fours and seven-up; old sledge.
Sledge (verb)
to hit with a sledgehammer.
Sledge (verb)
To drag or draw a sledge.
Sledge (verb)
To ride, travel with or transport in a sledge.
Sledge (verb)
To verbally insult or abuse an opponent in order to distract them (considered unsportsmanlike).
Sled (noun)
A small, light vehicle with runners, used, mostly by young persons, for sliding on snow or ice. A “sled” in this sense is not pulled by an animal as a “sleigh” is.
“The child zoomed down the hill on his sled.”
Sled (noun)
A vehicle on runners, used for conveying loads over the snow or ice. contrast “sleigh”, which is larger
“”Mush!” he yelled at the dogs pulling the sled.”
Sled (noun)
A snowmobile.
Sled (verb)
To ride a sled.