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
1
The chief lighting technician on a film or television set.
"The gaffer adjusted the lights before the next take."
2
British informal: a boss, foreman, or manager, especially in sport.
"The players say the new gaffer has transformed the team."
3
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 notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- gaffers
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
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.
Related words
Rhymes for gaffer
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.
