■ noun
1》 a toothed wheel that works with others to alter the relation between the speed of an engine and the speed of the driven parts (e.g. wheels).
↘a particular setting of engaged ~s: in fifth ~.
2》 apparatus or equipment: camping ~.
↘ informal personal possessions.
↘ informal clothing: designer ~.
3》 Brit. informal illegal drugs.
■ verb
1》 design or adjust ~s to give a specified speed or power output.
2》 (often ~ something up ) make ready; prepare.
↘(often ~ something for/to/towards ) equip or adapt for a particular purpose.
3》 ( ~ down or up ) change to a lower (or higher) ~.
Phrases
in (or out of ) ~ with a ~ (or no ~) engaged.
Origin
ME: of Scand. origin; cf. ON gervi .