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Gear Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gear

[ɡɪər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mechanism

A gear is a wheel with teeth that interlock with the teeth of another wheel, used to transmit power or change the speed or direction of motion.

Synonyms

cog, sprocket, wheel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gear

Used in a mechanical or automotive context where multiple gears transmit power or change speed. It can also be used more broadly to describe equipment for activities.

  • The bike's gear system allows for smooth transitions
  • Make sure to bring all your camping gear
cog

Typically referred to a tooth on the rim of a wheel or gear; often used metaphorically to describe someone as a small part of a larger system, which can be negative.

  • The broken cog caused the entire machine to stop working
  • He felt like just another cog in the corporate machine
sprocket

Specifically describes a toothed wheel that engages with a chain or track, often used in bicycles or machinery.

  • The bike’s sprocket needed to be lubricated
  • The old sprocket was worn out and needed replacement
wheel

Refers broadly to the circular object that enables vehicles or machinery to move. Can also be used metaphorically to describe progress or cycles.

  • She replaced the flat tire with a spare wheel
  • The wheel of time keeps turning

Examples of usage

  • The bicycle chain moves the gears to change the speed of the bike.
  • The gears in a car's transmission allow the driver to shift between different speeds.
  • The clock's gears work together to keep time accurately.
Context #2 | Verb

adjust

To gear means to adjust or adapt something for a specific purpose or situation.

Synonyms

adapt, adjust, align.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gear

The same as described above, it can refer to equipment or preparations and is usually neutral.

  • The car's gears need regular maintenance.
  • He is always ready with his camera gear.
adjust

Refers to making small changes to improve or correct something, often technical or minor in nature.

  • She adjusted her chair to be more comfortable.
  • You should adjust the brightness on your monitor to reduce eye strain.
adapt

Used when referring to changing oneself or something else to fit new conditions or environments. It has a positive connotation.

  • Migratory birds adapt to seasonal changes.
  • He had to adapt his teaching style to accommodate the new curriculum.
align

Commonly used to describe positioning in a straight line or the coordination of plans, ideas, or positions. Often used in strategic or mechanical contexts.

  • The team needs to align their goals with the company’s vision.
  • Please align the text to the center of the page.

Examples of usage

  • The company geared its marketing strategy towards younger audiences.
  • The government geared up for the upcoming election by increasing security measures.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Gears are crucial in machines, providing mechanical advantage and changing speed or torque.
  • The gear mechanism is vital for vehicles, enabling different speeds and power during driving.

Science

  • Gears operate based on the principles of physics, particularly in machines that convert energy into motion.
  • In engineering, gear design affects how efficiently machines function, influencing everything from efficiency to safety.

Pop Culture

  • In films, gears can symbolize complex systems and the interworking of characters’ lives, like in movies featuring heists or machinery.
  • Video games often use gears as a mechanic, representing both puzzles and action, illustrating how they fit together in gameplay.

Sports

  • In cycling, gear refers to the setup of chains and sprockets that affect how easily a bike can move uphill or fly on flat paths.
  • Athletes often refer to their 'gear' when talking about sports equipment, like running shoes, helmets, or training outfits.

Origin of 'gear'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'gear' comes from the Old English 'geara,' meaning tools or equipment.
  • Originally, 'gear' referred to all kinds of equipment or apparatus used in work.

The word 'gear' originated from the Old Norse word 'geir,' meaning 'equipment' or 'gear.' It has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to mechanical parts with teeth that interlock to transmit power. Over time, the term has expanded to include a broader range of meanings related to adjustment and adaptation.

See also: gears, gearwheel.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,963, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.