This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
gavel
1[ gav-uhl ]
/ ˈgæv əl /
Save This Word!
This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
noun
a small mallet used by the presiding officer of a meeting, a judge, etc., usually to signal for attention or order.
a similar mallet used by an auctioneer to indicate acceptance of the final bid.
Masonry. kevel2.
verb (used with object)
to chair (a legislative session, convention, meeting, etc.).
(of a presiding officer)
- to request or maintain (order at a meeting) by striking a gavel.
- to begin or put into effect (a legislative session, motion, etc.) by striking a gavel.
QUIZ
WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?
Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!
Question 1 of 7
Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.
Origin of gavel
1An Americanism dating back to 1795–1805; origin uncertain
Words nearby gavel
Other definitions for gavel (2 of 2)
gavel2
[ gav-uhl ]
/ ˈgæv əl /
noun
feudal rent or tribute.
Origin of gavel
2Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use gavel in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for gavel
gavel
/ (ˈɡævəl) /
noun
a small hammer used by a chairman, auctioneer, etc, to call for order or attention
a hammer used by masons to trim rough edges off stones
Word Origin for gavel
C19: of unknown origin
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012