A gavel is a small wooden hammer that a judge bangs on a desk to get everyone's attention in a courtroom. When a judge strikes the gavel, it makes a sharp cracking sound that means “Order! Listen up!” or “This decision is final.” You've probably seen this in movies: a judge pounds the gavel and announces “Court is adjourned!” to end the proceedings.

Gavels aren't just for courtrooms. The person leading a meeting, like a city council or club, might use a gavel to call the meeting to order or signal that it's time to vote. Auctioneers use gavels too: when someone wins a bid, the auctioneer bangs the gavel to show the sale is complete and official.

The gavel itself is usually made from hardwood and has a handle and a head that strikes against a small wooden base called a sound block. That combination creates the distinctive knock that cuts through conversation and commands attention. When you hear that sound, it means someone in charge wants immediate attention and quiet.