Gaff: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฃ
gaff
[ ษกรฆf ]
fishing tool
A gaff is a pole with a hook at the end, used to help land large fish. It can also refer to a hook used to catch or lift fish from the water. Gaffs are particularly useful for ensuring that larger catches do not escape.
Synonyms
fishing spear, hook
Examples of usage
- He used a gaff to land the huge marlin.
- The fishermen quickly reached for the gaff as the fish approached the boat.
- A well-placed gaff can make the difference between a successful catch and losing a trophy fish.
mistake
In slang usage, a 'gaff' can refer to a mistake or blunder, especially in a performance or presentation. It's often used to describe a slip-up that is embarrassing or noticeable.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She made a gaff during her speech and everyone noticed.
- His performance was marred by a slight gaff.
- After the gaff, he quickly recovered and continued.
Translations
Translations of the word "gaff" in other languages:
๐ต๐น gaff
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคซ
๐ฉ๐ช Gaff
๐ฎ๐ฉ gaff
๐บ๐ฆ ะณะฐั
๐ต๐ฑ gaff
๐ฏ๐ต ใฌใ
๐ซ๐ท gaff
๐ช๐ธ gaff
๐น๐ท gaff
๐ฐ๐ท ๊ฐํ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุบุงู
๐จ๐ฟ gaff
๐ธ๐ฐ gaff
๐จ๐ณ ้ท้ฑ
๐ธ๐ฎ gaff
๐ฎ๐ธ gaff
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะณะฐั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแคแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ gaff
๐ฒ๐ฝ gaff
Etymology
The word 'gaff' originates from the Old Norse word 'gaf', which means 'hook'. The term has been used in various forms related to fishing tools for centuries. It evolved in English to encompass both the physical item used in fishing and the metaphorical usage relating to mistakes or blunders. The fishing application of the term became particularly significant in maritime cultures, with gaffs being essential for landing larger fish that could not be easily pulled aboard by other means. Over time, the word took on additional meanings, influenced by the broad slang usage that emerged in the 20th century. Today, it encapsulates both its original meaning in fishing as well as a colloquial use that reflects social and theatrical settings.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #28,737, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
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