Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Gerrymander \Ger`ry*man"der\, v. t. [imp. & p. p.
   {Gerrymandered}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Gerrymandering}.]
   To divide (a State) into districts for the choice of
   representatives, in an unnatural and unfair way, with a view
   to give a political party an advantage over its opponent.
   [Political Cant, U. S.]

   Note: This was done in Massachusetts at a time when Elbridge
         Gerry was governor, and was attributed to his
         influence, hence the name; though it is now known that
         he was opposed to the measure. --Bartlett.