In what word class does the word "gouging" belong in this context?

Question

Here is the full sentence:

"The gaping defect was surrounded by multiple and extensive irregular punctate gouging type injuries measuring from 1/8 inch to 3/4 inch and had a depth of penetration of 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch."

Could you help me determine the word classes for the words in the phrase, "multiple irregular punctate gouging type injuries"? 

I'm trying to determine the word class of the word gouging in particular.

Is it an adjective? Is it a verb? Is the whole thing a noun phrase?

classenmom · Accepted Answer

Egads.

Multiple is definitely adjective.
Irregular                 "
Punctuate                "

At first I thought that the present participle "gouging" is used as an adjective modifying the noun phrase "type injuries" and that there is an implied/omitted preposition "of" before the word "injuries." Except that I think that should be a hyphen between "gouging" and "type."

I'd go with  "gouging type" is an adjective phrase and "injuries" as a noun.  Maybe you should throw all of the adjectives together into one adjective phrase.  Or a huge noun phrase.

Or answer the question in the form of an essay...  the other answerer might be right, but I don't know enough forensics to distinguish where the adjectives would end and a noun phrase would begin.

picador · Answer

It is an adjective which forms part of the noun phrase featuring "injuries."  
The origin appears to relate to forensics and/or autopsies.  It serves to show that the importance of vocabulary extends far beyond English classes.

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In what word class does the word "gouging" belong in this context?

2 Answers