second gear

After first, shift

Second gear is the gear ratio in a manual transmission between first and third, used after initial acceleration.

Drivers shift into second gear once the vehicle is moving but before reaching cruising speed.

Figuratively, to get into second gear or shift into second gear means to increase effort or intensity after a slow start.

mechanism

gearbox

Enclosed system of cogs

transmissionSending of information
cogsProjections on a wheel
sprocketsToothed wheels for chains

synchromesh · drivetrain · ratios · meshing · linkage · differential · bearings · lubrication · flywheel · crankshaft

driving

clutch

Mechanism linking engine to gearbox

shiftMovement or work period
manualWritten instructions for use
transmissionSending of information

tachometer · engine · revolutions · pedals · accelerate · decelerate · steering · dashboard · gauge · traffic

cycling

derailleur

Bike gear changer

chainringBicycle's front sprocket
cassetteMagnetic audio cartridge
cadenceRhythmic pulse or pattern

pedaling · sprocket · shifter · crankset · freewheel · hub · chain · climbing

Categories

manual transmissionclutch, gearbox, shift, shifter, stick shift
Drivetraingearbox, differential, transaxle, driveshaft, transfer case
transmissionbroadcast, broadcasting, transmitter, relay, signal
gearscog, pinion, cogs, rack, mesh

Opposites

gear position in sequence

second geartop gear

Fastest transmission ratio

fifth gear · sixth gear · high gear · reverse · overdrive

speed/momentum metaphor

second geartop gear

Fastest transmission ratio

high gear · full throttle · cruising speed · overdrive · full speed

Family

second, gear, seconds, secondly, secondary, seconded, seconding, gears, geared

Familiarity: Top 100,000
Profile: Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G