All over the gaff

All over the gaff

ALL OVER THE GAFF /all over Ξe gaff/
Noun London

Someone that’s in a mess or all over the place.

Example Sentences

"He's all over the gaff after a few pints."
"Me papers are all over the gaff."

Etymology & History

The word "gaff" has been Cockney slang for house or place since the 18th century. "All over the gaff" emerged in the early 20th century to describe someone or something in disarray.

Word Details

📍
Region
London/Cockney
📅
Era
Modern
✓
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Slang
Categories:
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Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition

British Slang from A to Zed

By Jonathan Thomas

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