gauge

/ˈɡeɪd͡ʒ/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: gauges · gauging · gauged

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A measure; a standard of measure; an instrument to determine dimensions, distance, or capacity; a standard

Noun

Examples

1780, Edmund Burke, speech at The Guildhall, in Bristol the gauge and dimensions of misery, depression, and contempt

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

An act of measuring.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To measure or determine with a gauge; to measure the capacity of.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To estimate.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “gauge” mean?

A measure; a standard of measure; an instrument to determine dimensions, distance, or capacity; a standard

Is “gauge” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.