Have you ever heard the phrase 'don't try to gas light me' I've heard this used often as a child. I think it had something to do with trying to with telling a lie or trying to convince someone of something that wasn't.
You are correct. It's based on the stageplay and movie (1944 - Academy Award Best Actress) of the same name "Gaslight". The plot involves a sweet, young wife who is being driven insane by her murderous new husband.