gauge
gauge Lexical Profile
gauge Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An instrument or device for measuring the magnitude, amount, or contents of something, typically featuring a visual display or scale.
"The mechanic checked the pressure gauge to ensure the tires were properly inflated before the long trip."
The specified thickness, size, or capacity of something, especially as a standardized measurement for materials like wire, sheet metal, or shotgun barrels.
"The electrician decided to use a heavier gauge of wire to safely handle the increased electrical current."
The official distance between the inner sides of the two parallel rails that make up a railway track.
"The delivery of supplies was delayed because the train carriages were not compatible with the narrow track gauge of the historic mountain railway."
• verb
To estimate, judge, or assess a situation, mood, or someone's feelings.
"It was difficult for the manager to gauge the team's reaction to the sudden restructuring announcement."
To measure the dimensions, capacity, or amount of something precisely.
"Astronomers use various mathematical techniques to carefully gauge the distance between stars."
Word Nuance & Usage
The word is notoriously frequently misspelled as 'guage' due to its highly irregular vowel sequence.
• Rhymes for gauge
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old Northern French 'gange' or Old French 'jauge', meaning a standard of measurement. It entered the English language in the 15th century.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.