high gear

noun

1
: high sense 3b
2
: a state of intense or maximum activity
—usually used with into or in
a project in high gear

Examples of high gear in a Sentence

She shifted the car into high gear.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Looks like the summer solstice kicked fashion into high gear. — Michelle Lee, PEOPLE, 26 June 2026 The rumor mill will kick into high gear about where James’ next destination could be. — Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 30 June 2026 Instead, the company shifted into high gear and rose to the challenge. — Christopher Derose, CBS News, 12 June 2026 In June, the garden shifts into high gear, and every corner seems to call for a bit of attention. — Rachel Silva, Martha Stewart, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for high gear

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of high gear was in 1889

Rhymes for high gear

See All Rhymes for high gear

Browse Nearby Words

high-front
high gear
High German
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“High gear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/high%20gear. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on high gear

Nglish: Translation of high gear for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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