gaffer

[ gaf-er ]

/ ˈgæf ər /

the chief electrician on a motion-picture or television production.

Informal. an old man.

British. a foreman or overseer, especially the boss of a group of physical laborers.

Glassmaking. a master glassblower responsible for shaping glassware.

Origin of gaffer

First recorded in 1565–75; contraction of godfather

Who coulde have thoughte that those ripe Grapes whereof dear Gaffer ate soe plentifullie, should have ended his Dayes?

The Household of Sir Thomas More |Anne Manning
My gaffer, Ole, had done me the honour in the forenoon of losing an 18-lb.

Lines in Pleasant Places |William Senior
There were deeper currents than any he had seen at Gaffer Quelch's school.

The Hero of Garside School |J. Harwood Panting
I wonder what the Gaffer Gooches, with their parsonships and military offices, think of it.

Rural Rides |William Cobbett

Then, nudged by his daughter, who had grown very pale, Gaffer Lezzard rose.

Children of the Mist |Eden Phillpotts

gaffer

/ (ˈɡæfə) /

an old man, esp one living in the country: often used affectionately or patronizingly Compare gammer

informal, mainly British a boss, foreman, or owner of a factory, mine, etc

the senior electrician on a television or film set

C16: alteration of godfather