gauge

gauge · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An instrument or device for measuring the magnitude, amount, or contents of something.

  2. 2.

    A standard dimension, degree, or capacity.

  3. 3.

    A means of estimating or judging something.

  4. 4.

    (as a verb) To estimate or determine the amount, level, or volume of something.

Forms

plural: gauges

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    gauge someone's reaction — to assess someone's response
  • •
    narrow gauge — a railway track narrower than standard
  • •
    take the gauge of — to assess or evaluate

Related words

See also: indicator, measure, meter, standard
Synonyms: indicator, measure, meter, standard

Etymology

From Old French gauge ("measuring rod"), possibly of Germanic origin. Related to Old Norse gálgi ("pole"). Also spelled "gage" in some contexts.