Gad (?), n. [OE. gad, Icel. gaddr goad, sting; akin to Sw. gadd sting, Goth. gazds, G. gerte switch. See Yard a measure.] 1. The point of a spear, or an arrowhead.[1913 Webster]
2. A pointed or wedge-shaped instrument of metal, as a steel wedge used in mining, etc.[1913 Webster]
I will go get a leaf of brass,And with a gad of steel will write these words.
3. A sharp-pointed rod; a goad.[1913 Webster]
4. A spike on a gauntlet; a gadling. Fairholt.[1913 Webster]
5. A wedge-shaped billet of iron or steel. [Obs.][1913 Webster]
Flemish steel . . . some in bars and some in gads.
6. A rod or stick, as a fishing rod, a measuring rod, or a rod used to drive cattle with. [Prov. Eng. Local, U.S.] Halliwell. Bartlett.[1913 Webster]
Upon the gad, upon the spur of the moment; hastily. [Obs.] “All this done upon the gad!” Shak.[1913 Webster]
Gad, v. i. [imp. & p. p. Gadded; p. pr. & vb. n. Gadding.] [Prob. fr. gad, n., and orig. meaning to drive about.] To walk about; to rove or go about, without purpose; hence, to run wild; to be uncontrolled. “The gadding vine.” Milton.[1913 Webster]
Why gaddest thou about so much to change thy way?