Definition of "gaff" []

• A large iron hook attached to a pole or handle and used to land large fish. (noun)
• Nautical A spar attached to the mast and used to extend the upper edge of a fore-and-aft sail. (noun)
• A sharp metal spur or spike fastened to the leg of a gamecock. (noun)
• A climbing hook used by telephone and electric line workers. (noun)
• Slang A trick or gimmick, especially one used in a swindle or to rig a game. (noun)

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.

• "So this gaff is all the reporters fault for being insecure?"
• "And surprisingly, there are many situations when a gaff is a better tool than a landing net for releasing fish."
• "It will be interesting to see if this proves, once again, the truth of the old saying that in Washington, D.C. the definition of a "gaff" is slipping up and telling the truth."