Definition of Gear
Quick Meaning of Gear
All the special clothes and equipment you need to play a sport or do an activity safely.
Detailed Definition of Gear
Equipment, clothing, and supplies needed for a particular activity or sport
How to Pronounce Gear
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One syllable with a clear 'ee' sound: GEER. Rhymes with 'beer' and 'near'.
Watch out: Pronounced as 'GEER' instead of 'GEER' (this is correct)
Origin and Etymology of Gear
From Old Norse 'gervi' (readiness, equipment), related to the verb 'gera' (to make or prepare).
How to Use Gear in a Sentence
Each example shows “gear” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The hockey player needs protective gear before stepping on the ice.”
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“I packed all my camping gear in the backpack.”
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“The mountaineers checked their climbing gear carefully before the expedition.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Gear
Common Synonyms for Gear
Smart Synonyms for Gear — When to Use Each
- equipment
- tools and devices used for a specific purpose
- protective gear
- clothing and equipment that protects from injury
Common Collocations with Gear
These phrases pair with “gear” in everyday English:
- protective gear
- sports gear
- camping gear
- climbing gear
- pack gear
Common Mistakes When Using Gear
Even fluent speakers slip up with “gear”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I need to buy a new gear for skiing.
- ✓ Correct: I need to buy new gear for skiing.
- Why: Gear is uncountable. Use 'new gear' not 'a new gear'.
- ✗ Wrong: The gears in my backpack are heavy.
- ✓ Correct: The gear in my backpack is heavy.
- Why: When referring to equipment, gear doesn't have a plural form. Use 'gear is' not 'gears are'.
Other Forms of Gear
- Noun: gear
Frequently Asked Questions About Gear
What is the meaning of "Gear"?
All the special clothes and equipment you need to play a sport or do an activity safely.
How do you pronounce "Gear"?
The IPA is /ɡɪr/. One syllable with a clear 'ee' sound: GEER. Rhymes with 'beer' and 'near'.
What part of speech is "Gear"?
"Gear" is a noun at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Gear"?
Common synonyms include equipment, kit, outfit.
How do you use "Gear" in a sentence?
For example: "The hockey player needs protective gear before stepping on the ice."