gavel

gav-el · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A small wooden hammer used by a judge, auctioneer, or chairman of a meeting to call for attention or order.

  2. 2.

    (as a verb) To use a gavel; to bring to order with a gavel.

Forms

plural: gavels

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    bang the gavel — to strike the gavel, often to call for order
  • •
    gavel-to-gavel coverage — complete coverage of proceedings from start to finish
  • •
    pass the gavel — to transfer leadership of an organization

Related words

See also: court, hammer, judge, mallet
Synonyms: hammer, mallet

Etymology

Origin uncertain; first recorded in American English in the early 19th century. Possibly related to German Gabel ("fork") or an Old English word for tribute or rent payment.