The term "14-gauge" typically refers to the thickness of a wire or metal. In the American wire gauge (AWG) system, a lower gauge number indicates a thicker wire. A 14-gauge wire is commonly used in electrical applications, such as household wiring, because it can safely carry a moderate amount of current without overheating. In addition to electrical wiring, "14-gauge" can also describe the thickness of materials like sheet metal or shotgun barrels. For example, a 14-gauge shotgun is a popular choice for hunting and sport shooting due to its balance of power and manageable recoil.