An elderly man, especially in rural areas; also, the chief lighting technician on a film or television set.
Originally from 'godfather,' contracted through Middle English to 'gaffer' as a respectful term for an older man. The film industry meaning developed in the 20th century, where the gaffer became the head electrician responsible for lighting.
The evolution of 'gaffer' from a rural term of respect for elderly men to Hollywood technical jargon perfectly illustrates how specialized industries adopt and repurpose everyday words. In British English, it's also slang for a boss or foreman, showing the word's natural association with authority and experience.
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