wire gage
1
6.9
- noun
- /ˈwaɪər ɡeɪdʒ/
- Specialized
- The electrician used a wire gage to determine the thickness of the wire needed for the installation.
Examples
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Using a wire gage helps you select the right wire size for your project.
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To ensure proper connections, it's essential to check the wire gage before starting any electrical work.
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Wire gauge here is given as an example; consult a voltage drop calculator and building codes for wire recommendations.
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Synonyms
61
4.4
A standard measurement of size or thickness used to compare objects
1
7.3
A tool that measures very small distances or thicknesses using a fine screw
1
4.3
A tool for measuring the thickness of wire
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning 'an instrument used to measure the diameter or thickness of wire' is directly and compositionally derived from 'wire' (thin metal strand) + 'gage' (measuring instrument). This noun+noun compounding pattern is regular in English (e.g. 'pressure gauge', 'fuel gauge') and cross-linguistically common, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents should understand it.
Etymology
Wire gage comes from a simple measuring tool: early gage plates had holes or slots where you put a wire to see which hole fit, so you could tell the wire's 'size'. That's why wire gage means a tool for measuring the 'thickness' or 'size' of a wire.