weather gauge

noun

1. Nautical. gauge19
2. the position of advantage; upper hand:

   Having bought out her competitors, she now has the weather gauge in the industry.

Word History and Origins

Origin of weather gauge¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

He would thus have what corresponded to the weather-gauge in old-time frigate actions.

From Project Gutenberg

His plan was to gain the weather-gauge of the Armada, and inflict damage on them in their course, and throw them into disorder.

From Project Gutenberg

Another simple weather-gauge may be made by stretching whip-cord or catgut over five pulleys.

From Project Gutenberg

She stood down upon us, under all sail, having the weather-gauge, and as soon as she got within gunshot began blazing away.

From Project Gutenberg

Commander, you handled him like a babby, kept the weather gauge, and hulled him every shot.

From Project Gutenberg