Definition of "gad" []

• To move about restlessly and with little purpose. See Synonyms at wander. (verb-intransitive)
• A pointed tool, such as a spike or chisel, used for breaking rock or ore. (noun)
• A goad, as for prodding cattle. (noun)
• To break up (ore, for example) with a gad. (verb-transitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "_gad_ [Footnote: A gad is a tool used in mines; it resembles a smith's punch.] were put into my hands; and I thought myself a great man."
• "There are several species known under various names, such as gad-fly, breeze-fly, etc."
• "The tendency to graze cattle, which is not hard work, and to "gad" about to cattle fairs, which are esteemed the greatest diversion the country affords, is an indication of the distinct superiority of the quick-witted Celt to the dull Saxon hind."