high gear

noun

1
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.
But her winning Miss Rostro, a regional beauty pageant, in 2021 is what kicked her career as an influencer into high gear. Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 17 May 2025 However, a larger sting will be felt in June and July, just when the back-to-school shopping season goes into high gear. Wyatte Grantham-Philips, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2025 Eventually, a murder puts things in high gear, and like the sisters, readers will need to ask how much is too much. Chris Vognar, Los Angeles Times, 14 May 2025 Lopez's Mother's Day celebrations serve as one last relaxing day with family before her preparations for the American Music Awards kick into high gear. Starr Bowenbank, People.com, 12 May 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“High gear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/high%20gear. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

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