An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. (n.) A standard of measure or measurement, size, or quantity.
   

2. Any of a wide variety of devices or instruments used for measuring a parameter or characteristic of an object, such as its dimension, quantity, or mechanical accuracy.
   

3. Physics: One of the family of choices for a constant in the expression of → potential energy in a central force field. Force is connected with potential energy by the relation F = - ∂U/∂r, U = ∫F.dr. The upper limit in the integral can be chosen arbitrarily. The potential energy is usually considered zero at infinity.
   

4. (v.) To determine the exact dimensions, capacity, quantity, or force of; measure.

Etymology (EN): From Fr. jauge “gauging rod,” perhaps from Frankish galga “rod, pole for measuring;” cf. O.N. gelgja “pole, perch;” O.H.G. galgo; Lith. zalga “pole, perch;” Arm. dzalk “pole;” E. gallows; see below.

Etymology (PE): Gaz “a yard for measuring cloth; a length of 24 finger-breadths, or six hands; the tamarisk-tree,” from Mid.Pers. gaz “tamarisk,” may be of the same origin as gauge. In verbal form with kardan “to do, to make” (Mid.Pers. kardan; O.Pers./Av. kar- “to do, make, build;” Av. kərənaoiti “he makes;” cf. Skt. kr- “to do, to make,” krnoti “he makes, he does,” karoti “he makes, he does,” karma “act, deed;” PIE base k^wer- “to do, to make”).