Gauge

(gāj.) [From Fr.jauger, to measure.] An apparatus or instrument for taking measurements of forces or dimensions. G. are of various kinds: thus we have the sliding-G., used by mathematical instrument makers for measuring and setting off distances; the tide-G., for determining the heights of tides; the wind-G., for measuring the force of the wind on any given surface; the rain-G., wire-G., button-G., .-(Naut.) Same as GAGE (q. v.).-(Civ. Engin.) The distance between the parallel rails of a railroad.-(Gun.) The calibre of a piece of ordnance.- (Building.) In masonry, a mixture of fine or coarse stuff and plaster, or putty and plaster, employed in setting walls, for mouldings, and for finishing the better cla of ceilings. [s. 398]