Pronunciation: [ɡˈe͡ɪd͡ʒ] (IPA) 
The word "gage" can be spelled different ways, depending on its usage. When referring to a tool used to measure thickness or size, it is spelled "gauge" (/ɡeɪdʒ/). However, when referring to a challenge or defiance, it is spelled "gage" (/ɡeɪdʒ/). It is important to use the correct spelling in each context to avoid confusion. The IPA phonetic transcription for "gage" is /ɡeɪdʒ/, which accurately reflects the pronunciation of the word.
Gage, also spelled gauge, is a noun with multiple meanings depending on its context and usage. The word has its origins in medieval times, derived from the Old French term "gauge," meaning a measuring rod or standard reference. Here are some common definitions of "gage":
1. Measurement Device: A gage is a tool or instrument used for measuring, determining, or evaluating something. It can refer to devices such as a pressure gage, which measures the pressure of a fluid or gas, or a temperature gage, used to measure the temperature of an object or environment.
2. Deposit or Security: In a financial context, a gage refers to a valuable item or piece of property that is given as collateral or security against a loan or debt. It ensures that if the borrower fails to repay the loan, the lender can claim the gage as compensation instead.
3. Challenge or Defiance: A gage can also be used as a verb meaning to offer a challenge or defiance to someone. For example, one might "gage someone to a duel" as a way of initiating a physical confrontation.
4. Symbolic Reference: Gage can also be used as a synonym for a sign, token, or symbol representing an idea or theme. In literature, this term is often used to describe a character, object, or event that represents or foreshadows something deeper or more significant.
Overall, the word "gage" encompasses different meanings related to measurement, security, challenge, and symbolism. Its usage can vary depending on the specific context or discipline in which it is employed.
• A variety of plum.
• A pledge or security; a glove or cap, &c., thrown to the ground as a challenge to combat.
• To pledge; to wager.
• In weather-gage, the windward of a ship.
• To measure-see gauge.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "gage" has an interesting etymology. It derives from the Old French verb "gauger" meaning "to gauge or measure". This in turn comes from the Frankish word "wage" which also meant "to gauge or measure". The Frankish word was borrowed from the Old High German word "wagōn" which had a similar meaning. Ultimately, the Germanic root of the word comes from the Proto-Indo-European *weǵʰ-, meaning "to carry, weigh, or lift". Over time, the meaning of "gage" expanded to include concepts like a pledge or a security, such as a "gage of battle" in medieval times, which referred to a challenge or a oath of personal combat.
