noun

gaffer

ga-fuh

Gaffer (noun) means the chief lighting technician on a film or television set. Example: “The gaffer adjusted the lights before the next take.”

noun

The chief lighting technician on a film or television set.

"The gaffer adjusted the lights before the next take."

British informal: a boss, foreman, or manager, especially in sport.

"The players say the new gaffer has transformed the team."

An old man, especially an elderly one from the countryside.

"The old gaffer sat outside the pub every afternoon."

How to Use Gaffer

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDepending on context: the head of film lighting, a boss or football manager, or simply an old man.

When to use it

"Gaffer" for boss or manager is informal British usage, common in football commentary.

Common pairings

the gaffer says gaffer tape

Word Forms

gaffers plural, gaffers plural

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Fill the Gap

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The _____ adjusted the lights before the next take.

Etymology

From gaff (an old word for "hook") + -er; the film-lighting sense grew from technicians who once adjusted flaps ("gaffs") on lighting tents.

Rhymes for gaffer

staffer

See all rhymes for 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.