interjection

gad

Gad (interjection) means an old-fashioned exclamation of surprise, similar to "goodness!" or "by God!". Example: “Gad, that was close!" he exclaimed.”

interjection

An old-fashioned exclamation of surprise, similar to "goodness!" or "by God!"

""Gad, that was close!" he exclaimed."

verb

To wander from place to place, seeking amusement, often carelessly or aimlessly.

"She spent the summer gadding about Europe."

"He was always gadding off somewhere instead of staying home."

How to use gad

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishUsually seen today in the phrase "gad about," meaning to travel around casually for fun.

When to use it

Both the interjection and the verb sound old-fashioned in modern English.

Common pairings

gad about gadding around

Word forms

gadded past tense, gads plural, gads plural, gads plural, gads singular

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"_____, that was close!" he exclaimed.

Etymology

The interjection is a euphemistic alteration of "God," used to avoid swearing directly.

Synonyms

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gallivant jazz around

Related words

flirt gallivant

Frequently asked questions

What does “gad” mean?

The word “gad” means an old-fashioned exclamation of surprise, similar to "goodness!" or "by God!". In plain terms, usually seen today in the phrase "gad about," meaning to travel around casually for fun.

How do you pronounce “gad”?

“Gad” is pronounced gad (/ɡæd/ in IPA).

How do you use “gad” in a sentence?

Here is “gad” used in a sentence: “"Gad, that was close!" he exclaimed.”

What part of speech is “gad”?

Depending on how it is used, “gad” can be an interjection and a verb.

How many meanings does “gad” have?

“Gad” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an old-fashioned exclamation of surprise, similar to "goodness!" or "by God!".

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