Gavel: meaning, definitions and examples

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gavel

[ ˈɡav(ə)l ]

^{Context #1}

courtroom

A small hammer used by a judge or officer in charge of a court, to signal for attention or order.

Synonyms

hammer, mace, mallet

Examples of usage

The judge banged the gavel to bring the courtroom to order.
The sound of the gavel striking the desk echoed through the courtroom.

^{Context #2}

auction

A small wooden hammer used by an auctioneer to signal the acceptance of a bid.

Synonyms

hammer, mace, mallet

Examples of usage

The auctioneer used the gavel to close the bidding on the painting.
The final bid was made just as the gavel fell.

Translations

Translations of the word "gavel" in other languages:

🇵🇹 martelo de juiz

🇮🇳 हथौड़ा

🇩🇪 Richterhammer

🇮🇩 palu hakim

🇺🇦 молоток судді

🇵🇱 młotek sędziowski

🇯🇵 判事の槌

🇫🇷 marteau de juge

🇪🇸 mazo de juez

🇹🇷 hakim tokmağı

🇰🇷 판사의 망치

🇸🇦 مطرقة القاضي

🇨🇿 soudcovské kladívko

🇸🇰 sudcovské kladivko

🇨🇳 法槌

🇸🇮 sodnikovo kladivo

🇮🇸 hamar dómara

🇰🇿 сот балғасы

🇬🇪 მოსამართლის ურო

🇦🇿 hakim çəkici

🇲🇽 mazo de juez

Word origin

The word 'gavel' originated from the Old English 'gafol,' meaning 'tribute' or 'rent.' Over time, it evolved to refer to a small hammer used for various purposes, including in courtrooms and auctions. The gavel has become a symbol of authority and order in legal and auction settings.