Definition of gauge

• v. t. - To measure or determine with a gauge.
• v. t. - To measure or to ascertain the contents or the capacity of, as of a pipe, barrel, or keg.
• v. t. - To measure the dimensions of, or to test the accuracy of the form of, as of a part of a gunlock.
• v. t. - To draw into equidistant gathers by running a thread through it, as cloth or a garment.
• v. t. - To measure the capacity, character, or ability of; to estimate; to judge of.
• n. - A measure; a standard of measure; an instrument to determine dimensions, distance, or capacity; a standard.
• n. - Measure; dimensions; estimate.
• n. - Any instrument for ascertaining or regulating the dimensions or forms of things; a templet or template; as, a button maker's gauge.
• n. - Any instrument or apparatus for measuring the state of a phenomenon, or for ascertaining its numerical elements at any moment; -- usually applied to some particular instrument; as, a rain gauge; a steam gauge.
• n. - Relative positions of two or more vessels with reference to the wind; as, a vessel has the weather gauge of another when on the windward side of it, and the lee gauge when on the lee side of it.
• n. - The depth to which a vessel sinks in the water.
• n. - The distance between the rails of a railway.
• n. - The quantity of plaster of Paris used with common plaster to accelerate its setting.
• n. - That part of a shingle, slate, or tile, which is exposed to the weather, when laid; also, one course of such shingles, slates, or tiles.