"High gear" is spelled differently from how it sounds phonetically. In IPA transcription, it sounds like /haɪ ɡɪr/, but is spelled "high gear". The word "high" is pronounced with a long "i" sound, as in the word "pie", while "gear" is pronounced with a hard "g" sound, as in the word "get". Despite the spelling that may throw off non-native speakers, "high gear" refers to an automotive term for the highest gear a vehicle can achieve, meaning it is traveling at high speed with a high RPM count.
High gear is a term primarily used in the context of automobiles and machinery to describe the highest or highest ratio gear available within a transmission or drivetrain system. It refers to the highest gear selection option that enables the vehicle or machine to efficiently operate at high speeds or for tasks that require minimal effort.
In an automobile, specifically, high gear refers to the gear ratio where the engine's output speed is significantly higher than the input speed from the transmission. This gear is usually indicated by a numeral, such as number 5 or 6 on the gearshift, and is typically used when driving at high speeds on highways or open roads. High gear allows the engine to rotate at a lower RPM (revolutions per minute) while maintaining a higher speed, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and reduced wear on the engine.
Similarly, in machinery, high gear refers to a gear ratio that allows for increased output speed and reduced torque. It is often used in applications where high speeds are required, such as when operating a drill, lathe, or other power tools.
Overall, high gear is a gear ratio or selection that optimizes performance when high speed and minimal effort are desired, allowing vehicles or machinery to operate efficiently and effectively in such circumstances.
The word "gear" in the context of machinery and vehicles has its origin in Old Norse, where it meant "equipment" or "tools". It was later adopted into Old English as "gear" with a similar meaning.
The term "high gear" specifically emerged in the early 20th century with the introduction of the manual transmission in automobiles. In a manual transmission, gears of varying sizes are used to control power transfer from the engine to the wheels. The gear ratios determine the speed and power distribution.
When a vehicle is in "high gear", it means that the gearbox is set to a higher gear ratio, allowing the wheels to rotate more quickly for a given engine speed. This provides higher speed but lower torque.
So, the term "high gear" simply refers to the use of a higher gear ratio that allows for increased speed and reduced engine effort.