Something, such as a glove or other pledge, thrown down as a challenge to combat (now usually figurative).
"The GAGE union recently negotiated a new contract that will improve benefits for graduate students at Georgetown University."
US alternative spelling of gauge (a measure, instrument for measuring, etc.)
A subspecies of plum, Prunus domestica subsp. italica.
A quart pot.
Initialism of Georgetown Alliance of Graduate Employees.
In plain English: Gage is a union representing graduate student employees at Georgetown University.
"Members of gage organized a rally to advocate for better pay and benefits."
Usage: In American English, "gage" is an accepted variant spelling of the noun gauge, referring to a measurement or testing device; however, in British and international usage outside North America, this word typically denotes only the archaic pledge thrown down for combat rather than measuring instruments.
To give or deposit as a pledge or security; to pawn.
"The engineer used a gage to measure the thickness of the metal sheet before cutting it."
Alternative spelling of gauge (to measure)
In plain English: To measure something's size or extent.
"The mechanic used a special tool to gage the depth of the tire treads."
A surname, from occupations​.
"The historian wrote an article about the Gage family, noting that their name originated from a local occupation."
The word "gage" comes from Middle English and earlier forms in Old and Middle French, ultimately tracing back to a Frankish root meaning something pledged or given as security. It entered English alongside its doublet "wage," sharing the same Germanic origin but developing distinct meanings over time.