noun
gaffer
ga-fuh
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
Word Forms
gaffers plural, gaffers plural
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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.