Pronunciation: [ɡˈaf] (IPA) 
The word "gaff" is spelled with two letters "f" although it is pronounced with the "-ff" sound. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ɡæf/. This means that the "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "cat" and "rat", the "g" is pronounced as hard "g" as in "give" and "go", and the double "f" sound is pronounced more strongly than a single "f". "Gaff" means a fishing hook with a handle, and is sometimes used to describe an embarrassing mistake.
Gaff is a noun that has multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used.
In its most common sense, a gaff refers to a metal hook or barbed spear attached to a pole or rod, often used in fishing to land large fish. This specialized instrument allows anglers to safely secure and lift their catch out of the water, particularly when dealing with species that are difficult to handle or could potentially harm the fisherman.
However, gaff can also be used as a verb, indicating the act of landing a fish using a gaff. In this sense, it involves the skillful and precise maneuvering of the fishing tool to successfully hook and retrieve the fish from the water, ensuring that it does not escape or cause any harm to the angler.
The term gaff can also have a more informal meaning, referring to a social blunder or faux pas. It describes a mistake or embarrassing action made by an individual in public, often leading to feelings of awkwardness or humiliation. This colloquial usage is commonly associated with situations where someone says or does something inappropriate, unintentionally causing offense or embarrassment to themselves or others.
Overall, gaff is a versatile term that can refer to a fishing instrument for landing large fish, an action performed with such a tool, or a social mistake resulting in awkwardness or embarrassment.
A prop or sort of boom used in extending the upper corner of a fore-and-aft sail.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "gaff" can have multiple origins and meanings, so here are a few possibilities:
1. Gaff (nautical): In nautical terminology, a "gaff" refers to a spar used to extend a sail on a sailing ship. The term is believed to have originated from the Dutch word "gaffel", which means "fork" or "spearhead". Dutch sailors likely introduced the term into English during maritime interactions.
2. Gaff (slang): In informal slang, a "gaff" can refer to a house, apartment, or any place someone lives in. It is commonly used in British English as well as Irish English. However, in this context, the etymology is uncertain.
3. Gaff (verb): As a verb, "to gaff" can mean to cheat or deceive someone.
