Etymology:
Meaning and Origin:
A gaffe is a social blunder, a faux pas, or an embarrassing mistake. The term originally referred to a physical misstep or clumsiness, but it later came to be used more figuratively to describe social or diplomatic blunders.
The word "gaffe" likely originated in the Spanish language, where it means "lame" or "clumsy." It is thought to have been introduced to English in the early 17th century. Initially, the word was used to describe physical missteps, such as tripping or stumbling. However, over time, the meaning expanded to include social and diplomatic blunders.
Today, a gaffe is typically seen as a minor social misstep, rather than a major offense. However, some gaffes can have serious consequences, particularly in the political or diplomatic sphere.
Etymology The word gaff has several distinct etymologies depending on its meaning 1
Etymology Early 17th century probably from Spanish gafo lame clumsy awkward f
Etymology The word gaff has several distinct etymologies depending on its meaning 1
Etymology Early 17th century probably from Spanish gafo lame clumsy awkward f
Etymology Late Latin solecis impropriety of speech grammatical error Greek soloiki
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Etymology Comes from the Old French word nombere which derives from the Latin numer
Etymology Old English prættig Middle English prettie Meaning Physically attra
Grammar Etymology From Old French grammaire from Medieval Latin grammatica borrowed f
Etymology The word breakfast originated in the early 15th century Middle English term
