stand the gaff

== English == === Etymology === Became famous in the 1925 coalminers' strike in New Waterford, Nova Scotia, Canada, when J E McClurg, vice-president of BESCO, intent on starving the strikers into submission, was heard laughing at the strikers, saying "They can't stand the gaff." It then became an expression of defiance for the miners. === Verb === stand the gaff (third-person singular simple present stands the gaff, present participle standing the gaff, simple past and past participle stood the gaff) To endure harsh criticism, rough treatment, or severe difficulties without complaining or breaking down. ==== Usage notes ==== Initially in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, then more widely in Canada and beyond, the phrase became famous as a rallying cry for workers during strikes, symbolizing solidarity against employer pressure. ==== Synonyms ==== hold the line === References === Charlie Angus (December 2005), 9:13 from the start, in One Day Longer - One Day Stronger than MAGA!!!‎[1]