gall

gall · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Bold, impudent behavior; audacity.

  2. 2.

    To irritate or annoy greatly.

  3. 3.

    Bile, the bitter fluid secreted by the liver.

  4. 4.

    A swelling or growth on a plant caused by insects, fungi, or bacteria.

Forms

plural: galls

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    have the gall — to have the audacity or nerve
  • •
    dipped in gall — extremely bitter

Related words

See also: bile, gallbladder
Synonyms: audacity, impudence, nerve

Etymology

From Old English gealla (bile), related to Greek khole (bile).