E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Gear (g hard)
properlymeans “dress.” In machinery, the bands and wheels that communicate motion to the working part are called the gearing. (Saxon, gearwa, clothing.)
1
In good gear. To be in good working order.
2
Out of gear. Not in working condition, when the “gearing” does not act properly; out of health.
