The term FIREPLACE LEDGE can be broken down into two parts: the first part, FIREPLACE, is a structure made of brick or stone that is used to contain a fire in a home. The second part, LEDGE, is a shelf or flat surface that projects from a wall. Together, the term FIREPLACE LEDGE refers to a shelf or flat surface that is built into the wall of a FIREPLACE. The three-letter word HOB is a synonym for the term FIREPLACE LEDGE, and it is often used to refer to the same structure.