rig

Everyday

1. To rig something means to arrange it dishonestly so that a certain result happens, like rigging a game or a vote. tree →
2. To rig (up) means to build or set something up quickly from whatever you have. tree →
3. To rig a boat means to fit it with ropes and sails. tree →
4. A rig is a large structure for drilling for oil or gas, especially at sea. tree →
5. A rig can be a set of equipment, or (in some countries) a large truck. tree →

In the lessons

Stories and fairness: a rigged game is a cheat — the winner was decided beforehand. Design and technology: rig up a shelter, a pulley or a lighting set for a play. Geography: oil rigs stand in the sea. Sailing: the rigging is the ropes and sails. Phrases: rig up, oil rig, rigged game, rig a vote.

Examples

• The fairground game was rigged so nobody could win. tree →
• We rigged up a tent with a sheet and two chairs. tree →
• Workers live on the oil rig for weeks. tree →
• The sailors rigged the ship before the voyage. tree →
• Dad rigged up a pulley to lift the bucket. tree →
• Someone rigged the vote for class captain. tree →

Note

Past: rigged, -ing: rigging (double g). «Rigged» usually means cheated — be careful accusing people. «Rigging» is also a noun: the ropes on a sailing ship.