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Cuffs Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cuffs

[kÊŒfs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

clothing

A pair of close-fitting, often decorative bands that are worn around the wrists, typically to fasten or decorate a shirt, blouse, or jacket.

Synonyms

bangles, bracelets, wristbands.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cuffs

Restraints used by law enforcement to immobilize someone's hands, usually referred to as 'handcuffs'. It has a negative connotation.

  • The police officer put the suspect in cuffs.
  • He was led away in cuffs.
bracelets

Bracelets are soft or rigid pieces of jewelry worn around the wrist. They can be casual or formal and may have charms or beads.

  • He gifted her a gold bracelet for their anniversary.
  • She loves wearing bracelets to accessorize her outfits.
bangles

Bangles are rigid bracelets, usually made of metal or wood, worn as adornment around the wrist, commonly in South Asian cultures.

  • She wore a stack of colorful bangles on her wrist.
  • The bangles clinked together as she moved.
wristbands

Wristbands are flexible bands worn around the wrist for various purposes, including fashion, identification, or medical reasons.

  • She wore a pink wristband to support breast cancer awareness.
  • Festival-goers had to wear wristbands for entry.

Examples of usage

  • She rolled up her sleeves, revealing a pair of silver cuffs on her wrists.
  • The cuffs of his shirt were embroidered with intricate patterns.
Context #2 | Noun

law enforcement

A pair of metal restraints connected by a chain, used by the police to restrain a person's wrists.

Synonyms

irons, manacles, restraints.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cuffs

Typically used in a law enforcement or security context to describe handcuffs, a device used to secure someone's wrists together.

  • The police officer placed the cuffs on the suspect's wrists
  • He struggled to remove the cuffs, but they were too tight
restraints

A general term used to describe various devices or methods used to limit someone's movement, including ropes, handcuffs, or even physical force. Can be used in medical, law enforcement, or general contexts.

  • The patient was placed in restraints to prevent self-harm
  • Security used restraints to subdue the unruly passenger
manacles

A somewhat old-fashioned term that refers to handcuffs or shackles, often used in literature or formal writing.

  • The guards fastened the manacles tightly around his wrists
  • The hero was captured and placed in manacles
irons

Often used in historical or dramatic contexts, referring to heavy shackles or chains, usually made of metal, used to restrain prisoners.

  • The prisoners were bound in irons and led to the dungeon
  • In olden days, slaves were often kept in irons

Examples of usage

  • The suspect was arrested and placed in handcuffs.
  • The officer removed the cuffs before placing the suspect in the patrol car.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Fashion

  • Cuffs became a popular fashion statement in the 19th century, evolving from modest functional pieces to decorative elements.
  • Styles of cuffs vary greatly, appearing in everything from formal suits to casual wear, and can affect the overall look of an outfit.

Legal Terminology

  • In legal contexts, 'cuffs' often refers to handcuffs, which are restraining devices used by law enforcement to secure an individual's wrists.
  • The design and use of handcuffs have evolved, with modern materials being more lightweight while ensuring security.

Pop Culture

  • Cuffs and their various styles are frequently referenced in songs and movies, often symbolizing fashion or rebellion.
  • The iconic 'double cuff' style is often associated with high fashion and formal wear, known for its distinctive elegance.

Art

  • Cuffs appear in numerous paintings and artistic representations, often symbolizing status and fashion in historical portraits.
  • The embellishment of cuffs in ancient art demonstrates how clothing details communicate cultural values and social position.

Origin of 'cuffs'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cuff' comes from the Middle English term 'coof,' which means 'to strike or hit,' possibly referring to how it was used to shield arms.
  • The term began to be used in a clothing context in the 15th century, associated with the hem of garments.

The word 'cuffs' originated from the Middle English word 'cuffe' or 'coff', which referred to the end of a sleeve. Over time, the term evolved to specifically denote the bands worn around the wrists. The usage of cuffs in clothing dates back to the 16th century, where they were often adorned with embroidery or lace to signify one's social status. In the context of law enforcement, handcuffs have been used as restraints since the 17th century, initially made of wood and later replaced by metal for increased security.

See also: cuff.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,744, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.