a measuring instrument for measuring and indicating a quantity such as the thickness of wire or the amount of pressure in a boiler, a valued object deposited as a guarantee of good faith, a glove, cap, or other item worn as a pledge of love or friendship

throw down the gage, take up the gage, gage one's life

Formal and Informal Expressions of gage

In different contexts, you can replace 'gage' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'instrument, device' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'tool, thing' is a commonplace synonym.

gage: Explore its Definition & Usage

gage Definition

1a measuring instrument for measuring and indicating a quantity such as the thickness of wire or the amount of pressure in a boiler
2a valued object deposited as a guarantee of good faith
3a glove, cap, or other item worn as a pledge of love or friendship

Using gage: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "gage" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The mechanic used a gage to measure the thickness of the metal sheet.
Example
He put up his watch as a gage for the loan.
Example
She gave him her scarf as a gage of her affection.

gage Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for gage

Phrases with gage

throw down the gage
to challenge someone to a fight or competition
Example
He threw down the gage and challenged his opponent to a duel.
take up the gage
to accept a challenge
Example
She took up the gage and agreed to compete in the race.
gage one's life
to risk one's life
Example
He gaged his life to save the drowning child.

Origins of gage

from Old French 'gage', meaning 'pledge'

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Summary: gage in Brief

The term 'gage' [geɪdʒ] refers to a measuring instrument used to determine quantities such as thickness or pressure. It can also mean a valuable object deposited as a guarantee or a token of love or friendship. The phrase 'throw down the gage' means to challenge someone, while 'take up the gage' means to accept a challenge. 'Gage one's life' means to risk one's life.