gorge

A gorge can be a deep, narrow valley with steep rocky sides, often shaped by a river over a long time. It is the kind of place that can look dramatic and beautiful in nature.

But "gorge" can also be a verb. If someone eats far too much, especially with a lot of eagerness, you can say they gorged themselves. For example, after skipping lunch, a person might gorge on snacks in the evening. Do not confuse it with "gorgeous," which means very beautiful.

The word "gorge" has two main meanings. First, as a noun, a gorge is a narrow valley between hills or mountains, usually with steep rocky walls and often formed by a river cutting through the land over a very long time. Whether it is a famous place like the Columbia River Gorge or a smaller hidden ravine, it suggests a dramatic landscape marked by depth and narrowness.

Second, "gorge" functions as a verb meaning to eat greedily and excessively. To gorge yourself on something is to stuff yourself until you are uncomfortably full. It implies an unrestrained indulgence, often driven by a sudden craving or a long period of hunger. For example: "After weeks of healthy eating, she gorged on chocolate cake."

The connection between these meanings lies in the word's history. It comes from the Old French gorge, meaning "throat." That image helps explain both uses: a valley can seem like a narrow throat in the land, and overeating suggests filling the throat and stomach too much. So, whether you are describing a striking natural feature or talking about eating far more than you should, "gorge" points to depth, narrowness, or excess.