gaffe
UK: ɡæf | US: ɡæf
n. a social or diplomatic blunder; an embarrassing mistake or faux pas.
The word "gaffe" entered English in the early 20th century directly from French, where it originally meant "a clumsy mistake" or "blunder." The French term likely derives from Old Provençal "gafar" (to seize), but its modern sense of a social misstep became prominent in English. The word retains its French spelling and pronunciation, emphasizing its association with diplomatic or high-society contexts where such errors are notably awkward.
His comment about her age was a major gaffe at the party.
The politician’s gaffe during the speech went viral on social media.
She tried to laugh off her gaffe, but the room fell silent.
Making a gaffe in front of the CEO cost him the promotion.
Cultural misunderstandings can often lead to unintentional gaffes.