gaffle

[ gaf-uhl ]

/ ˈgæf əl /

New England (chiefly Maine).

Save This Word!

verb (used with object), gaf·fled, gaf·fling.

to take hold of; seize.

verb (used without object), gaf·fled, gaf·fling.

to take as one's own (used in the phrase gaffle on to): I'm going to gaffle on to that last piece of pie.

QUIZ

CUDDLE UP! A COZY QUIZ ON FALL WORDS HAS ARRIVED

If autumn is your ideal season, spice up your repertoire of "fall" vocabulary with this quiz on some warm and vivid descriptive words for the season.

Question 1 of 10

Which of the following words means “to make a crackling sound; crackle”?

Meet Grammar Coach

Origin of gaffle

1930–35; perhaps blend of gaff¹ and grapple

When fired it was-placed upon an iron gaffle or fork, which: the soldier carried with him, and stuck before him into the ground.
History of the United Netherlands, 1590-1599, Vol. III. Complete|John Lothrop Motley