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. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Bilge water. [ 1913 Webster ]

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 gold 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. [ 1913 Webster ]