Fluff: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'fluff' when you are talking about small, light pieces of soft material that come off fabric or feathers. It can also refer to unnecessary details that add little value to a conversation or writing.

• 'The pillow is filled with soft fluff
• ', 'His speech was filled with a lot of fluff
• '

Use 'down' specifically when referring to the soft feathers from young birds, often used for insulation in pillows, jackets, and bedding. It can also mean something is moving or situated in a lower position.

• 'The down in this jacket keeps me very warm
• ', 'She looked down from the tall building
• '

Use 'fuzz' when you are describing a light, soft, and small amount of fibers or hair on a surface. It often has a slightly casual or colloquial tone.

• 'There's a bit of fuzz on your sweater
• ', 'He's growing some fuzz on his chin
• '

Use 'lint' when referring to small fibers or pieces of thread that come off clothing, typically gathering in pockets or on fabric surfaces after washing or drying.

• 'There's lint all over my black pants after I washed them
• ', 'Use a lint roller to clean your jacket
• '

Use 'puff' when describing a small, light, and round mass of something, like smoke, steam, or powder. It often conveys a sense of something being airy or light.

• 'He blew a puff of smoke from his cigar
• ', 'A puff of flour came out when I patted the bag
• '

Typically used in casual situations where someone makes a small mistake or error, often harmless and easy to correct. Can also be used in a more lighthearted or playful way.

• I fluffed my lines during the presentation.
• She fluffed the pillow before putting it back on the sofa.

Often used when someone makes a significant mistake or does a poor job on something important. Usually has a negative connotation and implies incompetence.

• He really botched the job on the car repair.
• They botched the entire project by not following directions.

Used when someone performs a task very poorly, often causing confusion or problems. It has a negative tone and suggests a lack of skill or clumsiness.

• She bungled the interview and didn't get the job.
• The team bungled their chance to win the game.

Often used in sports or performance-related contexts to describe a failure to perform a task properly, usually in a way that is noticeable. It can also apply to missed opportunities.

• He muffed the catch during the baseball game.
• She muffed her lines during the play.

A versatile term that can be used in both casual and serious contexts to indicate making a mistake or causing confusion. It can be light or serious depending on the situation.

• I really messed up my exam.
• Don't mess up the kitchen while you cook!