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 • Mar. 13, 2026

This means he ensures the director feels comfortable with the gaffer, the dolly grip, the key grip, so that there’s no one on set that feels like a stranger.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 17, 2025

"We know the tactics that the gaffer has given us and if we stick to the plan, we know we have a great chance in every game we play."

From BBC • Feb. 25, 2025

This is the second time England have tried it and the second time they have reverted to one gaffer in pretty quick time.

From BBC • Sep. 3, 2024

Into the middle of this talk came Sam, bursting in with his gaffer.

From "The Return of the King" by J.R.R. Tolkien

Related Words

• elder
• founder
• grandfather
• ruler