gaffle

[ gaf-uhl ]

verb (used with object)

, gaf·fled, gaf·fling.

1. to take hold of; seize.

verb (used without object)

, gaf·fled, gaf·fling.

1. to take as one's own (used in the phrase gaffle on to ):

   I'm going to gaffle on to that last piece of pie.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gaffle¹

1930–35; perhaps blend of gaff ¹ and grapple

Example Sentences

Scarcely a second did they eye one another when crack! slap! they were at it, wing and gaffle.

From Project Gutenberg

Gaffle onto your rose, and go 'long!

From Project Gutenberg

When fired it was-placed upon an iron gaffle or fork, which: the soldier carried with him, and stuck before him into the ground.

From Project Gutenberg

When fired it was-placed upon an iron gaffle or fork, which: the soldier carried with him, and stuck before him into the ground.

From Project Gutenberg

When fired it was- placed upon an iron gaffle or fork, which: the soldier carried with him, and stuck before him into the ground.

From Project Gutenberg