Cuff Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
cuff
[kสf ]
Definitions
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
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
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| 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.
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| border |
Used to describe the outer edge or boundary of an object, area, or piece of land. It can also metaphorically describe limits.
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| 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.
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Examples of usage
- She rolled up the cuffs of her jeans.
- The shirt has a cuff with buttons.
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
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| bracelet |
This refers to a piece of jewelry worn around the wrist. It's used in fashion and personal adornment contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The police officer put handcuffs on the suspect's wrists.
- He was arrested and put in cuffs.
restraining action
To cuff someone is to put handcuffs or restraints on their wrists, usually in the context of arresting or restraining them.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
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| restrain |
Means to hold back or control someone or something, often in a physical or emotional sense. It has neutral to slightly negative connotations.
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| 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.
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| bind |
Implies tying or securing something with rope, string, or similar material. It can also refer to making someone feel restricted or obligated.
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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 sleeveโs 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.