Langimage
English

gaffe

|gaffe|

C1

/ɡæf/

social blunder

Etymology
Etymology Information

'gaffe' originates from French, specifically the word 'gaffe,' where it meant 'blunder.'

Historical Evolution

'gaffe' was borrowed directly from French into English in the early 20th century.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a blunder or mistake,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an unintentional act or remark causing embarrassment to its originator; a blunder.

He made a gaffe by mispronouncing her name during the speech.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41