What does cuff mean Meaning and Definition
What does cuff mean
Pronunciation
/ˈkʌf/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A part of a shirt or coat, typically fastened at the wrist or near the wrist with buttons or a Velcro strip, covering the sleeve and surrounding it.
Examples
- The jacket had a button-up cuff that added a stylish touch.
- She adjusted her shirt cuff to make it fit better with her gloves.
Synonyms
- Sleeve
- Collar
Antonyms
- Fold
- Loose
Etymology
The word “cuff” is derived from the Old French word “coffe,” which means “clasp” or “to encircle.” This term has been used since the 13th century to describe various types of clasps or fasteners on clothing.
Usage Notes
The cuff can refer to a wide range of fasteners on clothing, from formal buttons on dress shirts to sportier Velcro strips on jackets. The term is often used interchangeably with “sleeve,” but it specifically focuses on the part of the clothes near the wrist.
Cultural References
Wrist cuffs have been an essential part of fashion and style throughout history, appearing in various forms of clothing, from traditional leather cuffs in ancient Greece and Rome to luxurious brocade cuffs in Renaissance-era Europe.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Get a cuff link” (to attach a decorative link to a shirt cuff)
- “Roll up your sleeves” (to show willingness to work or participate)
Related Words or Phrases
- Collar
- Buttonhole
- Seams
- Edgings
Collocations
- Button cuff
- Velcro cuff
- Slate cuff
Frequency of Use
The word “cuff” is a relatively common term in casual conversation, particularly in discussions about clothing and style. It has a moderate frequency of use in everyday language, with a high occurrence in formal and informal contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Cuf
- Kuff
- Coof