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

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

"This is a big move for me, but as soon as I knew the gaffer was interested and really liked me, it didn't take much time to decide," Ramsey told Newcastle's club website.

From BBC

Related Words

• elder
• founder
• grandfather
• ruler