gear
UK[ɡɪə(r)]US[ɡɪr]
n
A set of toothed wheels that work together to change the relation between the speed of a driving mechanism and the speed of the driven parts.
n
Equipment or apparatus that is used for a particular purpose.
v
To design or adjust something to suit a particular need or situation.
Etymology
The word 'gear' entered English from Old Norse 'gervi', meaning 'apparel, equipment'. This Norse term is related to the Old English 'gearwe', which also meant 'clothing, dress, equipment'. Both words trace back to the Proto-Germanic garwōn-, signifying 'equipment, preparation'. The semantic journey from general 'equipment' or 'preparedness' to the specific mechanical device is logical; the toothed wheels of a machine are the essential 'equipment' that prepares it for operation, enabling motion and function. Over time, the term specialized in mechanics while retaining its broader sense of functional apparatus.
Analysis
The word 'gear' is a simplex word of Old Norse origin. It does not contain separable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
He shifted the car into a lower gear to climb the steep hill.
Make sure you have all your camping gear packed before we leave.
The company's training program is geared towards developing practical skills.