peg the needle
The idiom "peg the needle" originates from the behavior of analog gauges and meters, where the needle hits the maximum limit of the scale.
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Definition
C1Measurement
(technical)To cause an indicator or gauge to reach its maximum measurable point.
Example
- The engine revved so high that it pegged the needle on the tachometer.
B2General
(idiomatic)To reach the highest possible level or intensity of something.
Example
- During the concert, the band's energy pegged the needle, thrilling the audience.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "peg the needle":
peg itpeg downthread the needlepeg awaysewing needlepeg output a pin in