Cuff Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cuff

[kสŒf ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

wearable item

A cuff is a band or fold at the end of a sleeve, or at the bottom of a pant leg, that can be turned back.

Synonyms

border, hem, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cuff

Typically used to refer to the end part of a sleeve, usually at the wrist, which can be turned back or adorned with buttons or other fasteners.

  • He adjusted the cuff of his shirt before shaking hands.
  • The cuffs on her blouse were embroidered with delicate patterns.
hem

Refers to the edge of a piece of cloth, especially at the bottom of a garment, which is folded and sewn to prevent unraveling.

  • She lifted the hem of her dress to step over the puddle.
  • The hem of his pants was frayed and needed repairing.
border

Used to describe the outer edge or boundary of an object, area, or piece of land. It can also metaphorically describe limits.

  • The garden has a beautiful border of flowers.
  • The two countries share a long border.
trim

Primarily used to describe the act of cutting something to make it neat or the decorative elements added to the edges of clothing or objects.

  • He decided to trim the hedge in his front yard.
  • The jacket was designed with gold trim along the edges.

Examples of usage

  • She rolled up the cuffs of her jeans.
  • The shirt has a cuff with buttons.
Context #2 | Noun

restraining device

A cuff is a device that is fastened around a person's wrist, typically used by law enforcement to restrain a suspect.

Synonyms

bracelet, restraint, shackle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cuff

Often used to describe the end part of a sleeve that encircles the wrist. It can also mean the act of handcuffing someone, especially in a policing or security context.

  • He rolled up his sleeves, revealing the cuffs of his shirt.
  • The police officer put the suspect in cuffs.
restraint

Generally used to describe a device or condition that limits someone's freedom of movement, often in a secure or medical setting. The term can also suggest self-control or holding back emotions.

  • The patient was placed in restraints to prevent self-harm.
  • His restraint in the face of provocation was admirable.
shackle

Commonly used to describe a device used to chain or bind someone's hands or ankles. It has a strong connotation of imprisonment or restriction of freedom and often carries a negative undertone.

  • The prisoners were shackled and led away.
  • The old laws served as shackles on the economy.
bracelet

This refers to a piece of jewelry worn around the wrist. It's used in fashion and personal adornment contexts.

  • She wore a beautiful gold bracelet on her wrist.
  • The bracelet was encrusted with precious stones.

Examples of usage

  • The police officer put handcuffs on the suspect's wrists.
  • He was arrested and put in cuffs.
Context #3 | Verb

restraining action

To cuff someone is to put handcuffs or restraints on their wrists, usually in the context of arresting or restraining them.

Synonyms

bind, restrain, shackle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cuff

Typically refers to hitting someone lightly, usually on the head or ear. It can also refer to putting handcuffs on someone or the end part of a sleeve.

  • The mother gently cuffed her son's ear for being cheeky.
  • The police cuffed the suspect and led him to the car.
  • The shirt has a stylish cuff with intricate embroidery.
restrain

Means to hold back or control someone or something, often in a physical or emotional sense. It has neutral to slightly negative connotations.

  • The security guards had to restrain the man who was causing a disturbance.
  • He struggled to restrain his anger during the meeting.
  • Parents often need to restrain their children from running into the street.
shackle

Often refers to physical chains or restraints used to limit someone's movement. It can also metaphorically mean being restricted or burdened by something.

  • The prisoner was shackled and led to the holding cell.
  • Fear and doubt can shackle your ability to make decisions.
  • The slaves were kept in shackles and forced to work in harsh conditions.
bind

Implies tying or securing something with rope, string, or similar material. It can also refer to making someone feel restricted or obligated.

  • They needed to bind the packages tightly so they wouldn't fall apart during transport.
  • She felt bound by duty to take care of her elderly parents.
  • The ancient manuscript was bound in leather.

Examples of usage

  • The police officer cuffed the suspect.
  • He was cuffed and taken into custody.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Fashion

  • Cuffs can be decorative and are often found in various styles, including buttoned, elastic, and lace.
  • In the 1970s, wide, flared cuffs became a fashion trend, particularly with bell-bottom jeans.
  • High-fashion designers use unique cuff designs to make statements in their collections, showcasing creativity.

Cultural Aspects

  • In Western culture, cuffs on formal attire signify sophistication and elegance.
  • Cuffs are sometimes paired with cufflinks in formal dress, which can be colorful and artistic accessories.
  • Certain subcultures, such as punk and streetwear, have reinvented the function and styling of cuffs to express rebellion.

Usage in Language

  • The term 'cuff' can also mean to hit someone lightly, which originates from the playful swat, similar to what animals might do.
  • In legal slang, 'cuff' often refers to the act of handcuffing a suspect, showing another layer of its meaning in context.
  • To 'cuff your pants' means to roll or fold the hem up, which is a common style choice for casual wear.

Children's Popularity

  • Cuffs are often a fun way for kids to personalize clothing, using patches or paint.
  • In school dress codes, the style of cuffs on uniforms can reflect a school's values or traditions.
  • Cuffed styles in children's fashion often emphasize playfulness, combined with functionality as kids move around.

Origin of 'cuff'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cuff' likely comes from the Old French term 'coffe', which means 'sleeve'.
  • In the 15th century, 'cuff' referred not just to the sleeveโ€™s end but also to the fold or hem of the fabric.
  • The influence of military uniforms in the 19th century popularized the style and function of cuffs in men's wear.

The word 'cuff' has its origins in the late Middle English period, derived from the Old French word 'coffinet', meaning 'little basket'. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to the folded or banded ends of clothing, as well as to devices used for restraining individuals. The use of 'cuff' in a fashion context dates back to the 16th century, while its use as a restraining device became prominent in the 19th century.


See also: cuffs.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,757, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.