gaffer
[gaf-er]
- the chief electrician on a motion-picture or television production.
- Informal. an old man.
- British. a foreman or overseer, especially the boss of a group of physical laborers.
- Glassmaking. a master glassblower responsible for shaping glassware.
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Origin of gaffer
First recorded in 1565–75; contraction of godfather
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Related Words
elder, ruler, founder, grandfather, originator, head, author, generator, sire, father, chief, master, architect, senior, ancestor, creator, maker, inventor, gaffer, paterfamiliasExamples from the Web for gaffer
Historical Examples
"If your cask is leer, I warrant your purse is full, gaffer," shouted Hordle John.
The White CompanyArthur Conan Doyle
What did “she” mean by talking of “Gaffer,” in that strange way?
Clare AveryEmily Sarah Holt
There were deeper currents than any he had seen at Gaffer Quelch's school.
The Hero of Garside SchoolJ. Harwood Panting
That's the only thing you seem to have brought with you from Gaffer Quelch's.
The Hero of Garside SchoolJ. Harwood Panting
My gaffer, Ole, had done me the honour in the forenoon of losing an 18-lb.
Lines in Pleasant PlacesWilliam Senior
gaffer
- an old man, esp one living in the country: often used affectionately or patronizinglyCompare gammer
- informal, mainly British a boss, foreman, or owner of a factory, mine, etc
- the senior electrician on a television or film set
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Word Origin
C16: alteration of godfather
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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Word Origin and History for gaffer
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper