Definition

Noun: 1. A tool for fishing: A long pole with a sharp hook attached, used for landing large fish after they have been caught on a line. 2. A part of a sailing ship: A spar (a strong pole) that extends diagonally upward from the mast of a sailing vessel to support the top edge of a fore-and-aft sail, such as a mainsail. 3. A weapon in cockfighting: A sharp metal spur fastened to the leg of a gamecock (a rooster bred for fighting).

Usage and Examples

• As a fishing tool:
  • The angler used a gaff to haul the massive tuna into the boat.
  • Always handle the gaff carefully to avoid injuring the fish or yourself.
• As a nautical term:
  • The sail was hoisted up the mast and secured to the gaff.
  • Traditional schooners often have sails rigged with a gaff.
• As a cockfighting spur:
  • The use of a gaff in cockfighting is considered cruel and is illegal in many countries.

Advanced Usage and Idioms

• To stand the gaff: (Idiom, chiefly US) To endure hardship, criticism, or pressure without complaining.
  • The new recruit had to stand the gaff during the intense training program.
• To blow the gaff: (Idiom, British slang) To reveal a secret; to give away confidential information.
  • Someone blew the gaff about the surprise party, so now everyone knows.

Variants and Related Words

• Gaff-rigged (adj.): Describing a sailing vessel whose principal sails are supported by a gaff.
  • The old gaff-rigged cutter was a beautiful sight on the water.

Synonyms

• For the fishing tool: Landing hook, boat hook.
• For the nautical spar: Spar, yard.
• For enduring hardship (idiom): Tough it out, grin and bear it, take it.
• For revealing a secret (idiom): Spill the beans, let the cat out of the bag, give the game away.

Different Meanings

The word gaff has distinct meanings in different contexts: 1. A practical tool in fishing and sailing. 2. A specialized term in the cruel sport of cockfighting. 3. A base for common idioms related to endurance (stand the gaff) and secrecy (blow the gaff).

Noun

1. an iron hook with a handle; used for landing large fish
2. a spar rising aft from a mast to support the head of a quadrilateral fore-and-aft sail
3. a sharp metal spike or spur that is fastened to the leg of a gamecock