Gavel definition
A maul used by masons in fitting stones.
noun
To strike with or as with a gavel.
verb
To bring about or compel by using a gavel.
verb
Tribute or rent in ancient and medieval England.
noun
A small mallet rapped on the table by a presiding officer in calling for attention or silence, or by an auctioneer.
noun
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To cause (a meeting) to end, be in order, etc. by striking a gavel.
verb
To strike a gavel.
verb
To use a gavel.
The judge gavelled for order in the courtroom after the defendant burst out with a confession.
verb
A small mallet, especially:
- One that a judge or presiding officer raps to signal for order.
- One that an auctioneer raps to mark the end of a transaction.
noun
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Origin of gavel
- Middle English from Old English gafol ghabh- in Indo-European roots
From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
- Origin unknown
From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
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From Wiktionary
- Origin obscure. Perhaps alteration of cavel (“a stone mason's hammer”). More at cavel.
From Wiktionary
- Old English gafol.
From Wiktionary