gage
Gage (noun) means something given as a pledge or security, often as a challenge to a duel or contest. Example: “The knight threw down his glove as a gage.”
How to Use Gage
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn old-fashioned word for a pledge or security deposit, or a type of plum.
Don't confuse with "gauge" (a measuring instrument) — they're pronounced alike but spelled and mean differently.
Word Forms
gaged past tense, gages plural, gages plural, gages plural, Gages plural, gages singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The knight threw down his glove as a _____.
Etymology
From Old French gage, ultimately from a Frankish word related to "pledge"; a doublet of "wage."
Rhymes for gage
See all rhymes for gage →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “gage” mean?
The word “gage” means something given as a pledge or security, often as a challenge to a duel or contest. In plain terms, an old-fashioned word for a pledge or security deposit, or a type of plum.
How do you pronounce “gage”?
“Gage” is pronounced gayj (/ɡeɪd͡ʒ/ in IPA).
How do you use “gage” in a sentence?
Here is “gage” used in a sentence: “The knight threw down his glove as a gage.”
What part of speech is “gage”?
Depending on how it is used, “gage” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “gage” come from?
The word “gage” comes from Old French. From Old French gage, ultimately from a Frankish word related to "pledge"; a doublet of "wage.".
Is “gage” a common word?
“Gage” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “gage” have?
“Gage” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: something given as a pledge or security, often as a challenge to a duel or contest.