Cuff: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.