reverse gear

plural reverse gears

1. countableuncountableautomotiveA gear (setting) in a vehicle's transmission which, when selected, makes the vehicle move backward. (Denoted with symbol R on a shifter's labeling.)

   Near-synonym: reversing gear

   3 more examples

   The reverse gear of a Ford Model T was engaged with a foot pedal.

   Reverse gear, air-operated, is incorporated in the transmission.

   1962 April, “Beyond the Channel: Western Germany: The Henschel 4,000 h.p. V320 diesel”, in Modern Railways, page 274

   It's a chance to get transport investment in this country out of reverse gear - a chance to end paper promises.

   2021 October 6, Paul Stephen, “Network News: Labour: build HS2 and NPR and end "paper promises"”, in RAIL, number 941, page 25

   Synonyms: reverse, reversing gear

2. countableuncountableengineeringA gear fitted to a machine which allows it to run in the direction opposite to normal operation.

   Near-synonym: reversing gear

   1 more example

   This old lathe has a reverse gear, but it wouldn't be used under most conditions, and in fact its use is unsafe under most conditions because the chuck is attached with nothing but a right-hand screw thread!

   Synonyms: reversing gear

3. countablefigurativelyuncountableA backward movement; a retreating from a goal; an undoing progress instead of moving forward.