noun
Uncommon
gage
gayj
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.”
noun
1
Something given as a pledge or security, often as a challenge to a duel or contest.
"The knight threw down his glove as a gage."
2
A type of small, sweet plum (also called greengage).
"The orchard grows several rows of gage trees."
verb
1
To pledge or pawn something as security.
"He gaged his watch to cover the debt."
How to use gage
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn old-fashioned word for a pledge or security deposit, or a type of plum.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "gauge" (a measuring instrument) — they're pronounced alike but spelled and mean differently.
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Plural
- gages
- Third person singular
- gages
- Past tense
- gaged
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."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
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.
