Disgavel

/dɪsˈɡævəl/ verb

Definition

To strike with a gavel in reverse; archaic usage related to removing authority or reversing a judicial decision.

Etymology

From dis- combined with gavel (from Middle English gavel, possibly from Old Norse gafal, relating to tribute or a mallet used in court). This is an extremely rare legal/ceremonial term.

Kelly Says

Even though 'gavel' (the little hammer judges use) is still common, 'disgavel' is essentially dead because you don't ceremonially undo a gavel strike—you just issue a new ruling—showing how specific professional vocabulary can become obsolete when practices change.

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