Legal Definitions - gavel

Definition: A gavel is a small hammer used by a presiding officer, such as a judge, to bring a meeting or court to order.

For example, when a judge hits the gavel on the desk, it signals the beginning or end of a court session or hearing. The sound of the gavel hitting the desk also commands attention and respect from those in the room.

In the past, gavel also had other meanings. It could refer to a tribute or toll paid to a superior, or an annual payment of rent or revenue, often in the form of crops like gavel-corn or gavel-malt.