# gauge

/ˈɡeɪdʒ/ (US) · /ɡˈeɪdʒ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gauge
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. measuring instrument

noun · CEFR B2

a tool used to measure the amount, level, or pressure of something.

For teachers: an instrument used for ascertaining the amount, level, or contents of something, often featuring a visual display or dial.

- The fuel gauge showed that the tank was almost empty.
- The technician monitored the pressure gauge closely, ready to shut down the system if the needle entered the red zone.

### 2. thickness or width

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a standard measurement of thickness, especially for wire, metal, or the distance between train tracks.

For teachers: a standard measure of dimensions or thickness, specifically regarding wire diameter, sheet metal, or the distance between the inner faces of railway tracks.

- The electrician used a heavy gauge wire for the new kitchen appliances.
- The country's railway network was difficult to integrate with its neighbours because they used a different track gauge.

### 3. ear jewellery

noun · CEFR C2 · Informal

a type of jewellery worn in a large hole in the earlobe.

For teachers: a cylindrical piece of jewellery inserted into a stretched earlobe piercing to maintain or increase its diameter.

- He decided to wear silver gauges in his ears for the concert.
- The shop specialises in organic materials for ear gauges, including carved wood and polished stone.

### 4. to judge or estimate

verb · CEFR B2

to make a judgment about a situation or a person's feelings.

For teachers: to evaluate or assess a person's feelings, a situation, or a reaction based on available evidence.

- It was difficult to gauge her reaction to the news because she stayed very quiet.
- The marketing team conducted several focus groups to gauge public interest in the proposed rebranding strategy.

### 5. to measure physically

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

to measure the exact size, amount, or strength of something.

For teachers: to determine the exact dimensions, capacity, or quantity of something using a measuring device.

- The scientists need to gauge the water levels every hour during the storm.
- Using laser technology, the engineers were able to gauge the structural integrity of the bridge with millimetre precision.

## Examples

- Check the fuel gauge before we leave.
- The manager uses monthly sales figures as a gauge of the new marketing strategy's success.
- Engineers monitored the pressure gauge closely during the experiment to ensure the structural integrity of the containment vessel remained within safety parameters.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.