The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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gall

noun

/gɔl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of gall

Bold or impudent behavior, displaying audacity or impertinence.
"It takes a lot of gall to lie to someone's face without any remorse."

Detailed meaning of gall

It signifies an act or statement that goes against social norms or expectations, often with a tinge of disrespect. Another common definition of "gall" refers to a feeling of bitterness, irritation, or resentment. It represents a deep-seated frustration or vexation caused by perceived unfairness or offense. When someone experiences gall, they feel a strong sense of displeasure or indignation. Additionally, "gall" can also refer to an abnormal growth or swelling on plants caused by insects or diseases. These galls can disrupt the normal development of the plant, altering its appearance or hindering its functions. Overall, the noun "gall" encompasses the notions of bitterness, resentment, audacity, impudence, and abnormal growth in different contexts.

Example sentences containing gall

1. The criticism she received from her colleagues filled her with gall.
2. His constant bragging and arrogance displayed an incredible amount of gall.
3. The gall of the person who cut in line made everyone else furious.
4. The bitter gall of disappointment settled in his heart after being rejected once again.
5. Despite his gall, he managed to charm his way into getting what he wanted.
6. The unfair treatment she faced at work left a bitter gall in her mouth.

History and etymology of gall

The noun 'gall,' in the sense of displaying audacity or impertinence, has an intriguing etymology. It can be traced back to the Old English word 'gealla,' which meant 'gall' or 'bile,' referring to a bitter secretion produced by the liver. In ancient times, it was believed that bitterness of character or boldness in behavior was associated with the bile or gall in a person. Over time, the term 'gall' transitioned from its literal meaning to a more figurative one, describing bold or impudent behavior. The etymology of 'gall' underscores its historical connection to the notion that audacious or impertinent behavior can be likened to the bitterness of bile, emphasizing the boldness and daring often implied by this word.

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Further usage examples of gall

1. It was a gall to witness the politician's blatant disregard for the truth.
2. She couldn't help but feel a surge of gall when she saw her ex-husband with his new partner.
3. The audacious gall of the thief amazed the witnesses as he stole the jewelry right under their noses.
4. He responded with gall and insolence, disregarding the consequences of his words.
5. The relentless criticism from her peers caused a deep-seated gall to grow within her.
6. His gall in challenging the boss's decision surprised everyone.
7. She had the gall to question my expertise on the matter.
8. The audacious student had the gall to argue with the professor.
9. It takes real gall to make such an outrageous statement.
10. I couldn't believe his gall when he asked for a raise.
11. Her gall knows no bounds; she insults everyone around her.
12. The politician's gall was evident in his shameless lies.
13. He had the gall to show up at the meeting unprepared.
14. She displayed incredible gall by ignoring all our warnings.
15. It's astonishing that he has the gall to demand an apology.
16. I can't believe the gall of that customer's unreasonable request.
17. The employee's gall got him into trouble with his superiors.
18. The criminal had the gall to smile during his trial.
19. I never expected her to have the gall to betray our trust.
20. His gall was evident when he refused to admit his mistake.
21. The competitor's gall in spreading false rumors was shameful.
22. The child's gall in talking back to the teacher was shocking.
23. She had the gall to steal credit for my hard work.
24. His gall was unmatched when he blamed others for his failures.
25. I was taken aback by the audacious gall of his proposal.