gavulate

To give the appearance of being adamant or decisive, while really having no intention to "make good" on one's promises (or threats). Derived from the tradition of the jurisprudent's gavel in US courts, which is used in television dramas to silence a querulous courtroom -- the gavel, despite conveying the image of power and authority, has in itself no inherent power (and so often proves insufficient at restoring "order in the court" amidst the outbursts of some headstrong witness or defendant). Because the gesture is itself only performative, it relies entirely upon the fear and awe of the hearer in order to retain its power.

"Coach will always gavulate about the importance of 'fundamentals' in basketball. But let a 6'11" kid show up to tryouts and it won't matter whether he can even dribble a ball."

gavulate by prevailingwest September 30, 2021

gagulate

To cause someone to gag as they perform fellatio.

I gagulated her when she deep throated me.

gagulate by Beau Guthrie June 22, 2008