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 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.