gar

¹

[ gahr ]

noun

, plural (especially collectively) gar, (especially referring to two or more kinds or species) gars.

1. Also called garfish, garpike. any predaceous freshwater fish of the genus Lepisosteus, of North America, covered with hard, diamond-shaped scales and having long jaws with needlelike teeth.
2. needlefish ( def 1 ).

gar

²

[ gahr ]

verb (used with object)

, garred, gar·ring.

1. Scot. to compel or force (someone) to do something.
2. Scot. and North England Obsolete. to do, perform, or cause.

gar.

³

abbreviation for

1. garage.

G.A.R.

⁴

abbreviation for

1. Grand Army of the Republic.

gar

¹

/ ɡɑː /

noun

1. short for garpike garfish

gar

²

/ ɡɑːr /

verb

1. tr to cause or compel

Word History and Origins

Origin of gar¹

1755–65, Americanism; shortened form of garfish

Origin of gar²

1250–1300; Middle English geren, garren, gairen < Old Norse gera to do, make; akin to Old English gearwian to prepare

Word History and Origins

Origin of gar¹

from Old Norse

Example Sentences

The lubricating proteins were abundant in the fish’s jaws and in the fins of zebra fish, gar, and sticklebacks, the scientists reported.

From Science Magazine

This has likely kept gar genomes so stable that species and even genera whose last common ancestor lived more than 100 million years ago have diverged very little.

From Science Magazine

“If you’re in a national campaign, you need to be able to tout your moderate bona fides,” said Gar Culbert, a professor of political science at Cal State Los Angeles.

From Los Angeles Times

Alejandra Ramos returns as “GAR” host and chefs Leah Cohen, Tiffany Derry and Seattle’s Graham Elliot are back as judges and mentors.

From Seattle Times

Givens says she hopes “GAR” viewers will approach American food differently after watching the show.

From Seattle Times

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