gavel
UK[ˈɡæv.əl]US[ˈɡæv.əl]
n
A small hammer used by a person in charge of a meeting or an auction to get attention or signal a decision.
Etymology
The word 'gavel' has a convoluted history, likely originating from Old English 'gafol' meaning "tribute" or "rent." This term evolved in Middle English to refer to a form of tenure or a tribute paid by a tenant. In the 19th century, particularly in American English, the word was adopted to name the small hammer used by a chairperson or auctioneer, possibly because such an official might have been associated with collecting dues or because the hammer symbolized the authority to conclude a transaction. Its modern, specific meaning is thus a semantic shift from a concept of payment to the tool representing the act of finalizing an agreement or sale.
Analysis
The word 'gavel' is a simplex word. It is a borrowing, likely from Old English 'gafol' meaning "tribute, rent," which shifted in meaning through its association with the payment or token that confirmed a sale at auction.
Examples
The judge brought the meeting to order with a sharp tap of the gavel.
The auctioneer's gavel fell, finalizing the sale of the antique vase.
She used the gavel to quiet the noisy committee members.