Gaff (?), n. [OE. gaffe, F. gaffe an iron hook with which seamen pull great fishes into their ships; cf. Ir. gaf, gafa hook; perh. akin to G. gabel fork, Skr. gabhasti. CF. Gaffle, Gable.]
1.
A barbed spear or a hook with a handle, used by fishermen in securing heavy fish.
2. Naut.
The spar upon which the upper edge of a fore-and-aft sail is extended.
3.
Same as Gaffle, 1.
Wright.
© Webster 1913.
Gaff, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Gaffed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Gaffing.]
To strike with a gaff or barbed spear; to secure by means of a gaff; as, to gaff a salmon.
© Webster 1913.