DictionarygearAdapting to a purpose
verb

gear

To adapt something for a particular purpose.

We gear each lesson to the needs of beginning readers.

Etymology

The verb grows from equipping something for work. To gear a plan or product to a purpose is to adjust its arrangement so it serves that purpose effectively.

More examples

  • The museum gears its weekend activities toward families.
  • She geared her presentation to an audience with no technical background.
  • The company is gearing its training toward workplace safety.

Forms

gear · gears · geared · gearing

Similar words

tailor
Emphasizes customizing something to fit specific needs or preferences.
adapt
Often emphasizes changing something existing to suit new conditions.
orient
Emphasizes directing attention or effort toward a particular goal.