gaffer
8 synonyms for gaffer, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The chief lighting technician on a film or television set.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use gaffer
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
the gaffer says
gaffer tape
"Gaffer" for boss or manager is informal British usage, common in football commentary.
Etymology
From gaff (an old word for "hook") + -er; the film-lighting sense grew from technicians who once adjusted flaps ("gaffs") on lighting tents.
Full origin of gaffer →Frequently asked questions
What does “gaffer” mean?
The word “gaffer” means the chief lighting technician on a film or television set. In plain terms, depending on context: the head of film lighting, a boss or football manager, or simply an old man.
How do you pronounce “gaffer”?
“Gaffer” is pronounced ga-fuh (/ɡæfɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “gaffer” in a sentence?
Here is “gaffer” used in a sentence: “The gaffer adjusted the lights before the next take.”
What part of speech is “gaffer”?
“Gaffer” is a noun.
How many meanings does “gaffer” have?
“Gaffer” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the chief lighting technician on a film or television set.
Related words
gammer
