gaffer

American  

[gaf-er] / ˈgæf ər /

noun

1. the chief electrician on the set of a movie or television show.

2. Informal. an old man.

3. British Informal.

   1. a boss, supervisor, or manager.

   2. a foreman or overseer in charge of a group of physical laborers.

      a factory gaffer.

   3. the coach or manager of a sports team.

4. Glassmaking. a master glassblower responsible for shaping glassware.

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gaffer British  

/ ˈɡæfə /

noun

1. an old man, esp one living in the country: often used affectionately or patronizingly Compare gammer

2. informal a boss, foreman, or owner of a factory, mine, etc

3. the senior electrician on a television or film set

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Etymology

Origin of gaffer

First recorded in 1565–75; contraction of godfather

Example Sentences

It’s telling that while Mr. Deakins takes pains to praise his longtime gaffer, key grip, dolly grip, best boy and more, he never bothers to define those roles for the lay reader.

From The Wall Street Journal

The opinion that really matters, though, is that of his gaffer and Rohl is clearly a big fan.

From BBC

I said: 'Why do I want to watch a movie with you gaffer?!'

From BBC

From the start, Davids tried to stamp his authority - telling the players to call him 'Sir' or 'Mister', a respectful equivalent of 'gaffer' common in Italian football.

From BBC

A man holding a sign advertising at a nearby diner said he worried about Kimmel’s crew, including the gaffers and makeup artists.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• elder
• founder
• grandfather
• ruler