wire gauge

noun

1
: a gauge especially for measuring the diameter of wire or the thickness of sheet metal
2
: any of various systems consisting of a series of standard sizes used in describing the diameter of wire or the thickness of sheet metal

Examples of wire gauge in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These cords should be heavy-duty and of a thick enough wire gauge to handle the current flowing through them; the cord's packaging will tell you what electrical load it's rated to supply. Roy Berendsohn, Popular Mechanics, 6 Aug. 2021 The second thing to consider in selecting an extension cord is wire gauge. The Editors, Field & Stream, 24 Oct. 2019 Available in a variety of sizes and wire gauges for any dog, the collapsible wire kennel offers a sense of security for your dog at night. The Editors, Outdoor Life, 8 Aug. 2019

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of wire gauge was in 1833

Dictionary Entries Near wire gauge

Cite this Entry

“Wire gauge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wire%20gauge. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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