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Tuft Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tuft

[tÊŒft ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

on furniture

A tuft is a bunch of soft threads, especially threads or pieces of wool that are tied firmly at one end and are used to decorate furniture, for example by making patterns on the surface.

Synonyms

bundle, cluster, knot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tuft

Use when describing a small, soft, and fluffy group of fibers, hair, or similar material that is joined at the base.

  • She gently brushed the tuft of fur on her kitten's ear.
  • The grassland was dotted with tufts of wildflowers.
cluster

Best used for describing a close group of similar objects, often growing or situated closely together, like fruits, stars, or people.

  • A cluster of grapes hung from the vine.
  • The stars formed a beautiful cluster in the night sky.
knot

Refers to a part that is tied or tangled, particularly with ropes or strings, or it can describe a tight group of people or things.

  • He struggled to untie the knot in the rope.
  • A small knot of fans waited outside the concert hall.
bundle

Appropriate when talking about a collection of items that are tied or grouped together for easy carrying or management.

  • He carried a bundle of firewood into the cabin.
  • She received a bundle of letters in the mail.

Examples of usage

  • The armchair was covered in green velvet with tufts of yellow silk.
  • The sofa cushions were adorned with golden tufts.
Context #2 | Noun

on plants

A tuft is a small bunch of long, thin, untidy pieces of something, especially grass or hair.

Synonyms

bunch, clump, patch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tuft

Describes small, dense clusters of soft material, such as hair, feathers, or grass. It often implies a natural, delicate formation.

  • A tuft of grass grew between the rocks.
  • The kitten had a little tuft of fur on its head.
clump

Used for dense groups of things, often plants or trees. It can also describe a heavy, dull sound when something drops or hits the ground.

  • There was a clump of trees in the middle of the field.
  • He heard a clump as the book fell to the floor.
patch

Describes a small area that is different from the surrounding area. Often used for parts of land with different vegetation, or areas of fabric sewn together.

  • The farm had a colorful patch of flowers near the entrance.
  • She sewed a patch onto her jeans to cover the hole.
bunch

Refers to a collection of similar items grouped together, typically used for vegetables, flowers, or objects that are tied or held together.

  • I bought a bunch of bananas from the market.
  • She received a bunch of flowers for her birthday.

Examples of usage

  • The grassy field was dotted with tufts of wildflowers.
  • The lion's mane had dark tufts of fur.
Context #3 | Verb

in sewing

To tuft something means to stitch through layers of fabric or padding and secure the stitches with buttons or knots to create a raised pattern or design.

Synonyms

fasten, sew, stitch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tuft

Use 'tuft' when referring to a small bunch or cluster of something, like hair, feathers, or grass, that is held or growing together at the base.

  • She admired the tuft of grass growing between the stones
  • The cat has a little tuft of fur at the end of its tail
stitch

Use 'stitch' to denote a single movement of a needle and thread, or to describe the act of sewing, especially when referring to individual instances or specific methods (like a type of seam).

  • I made a mistake and had to remove a few stitches
  • The doctor had to stitch up the wound after the accident
sew

Use 'sew' when talking about joining pieces of fabric or making clothes using a needle and thread. It generally relates to creating or repairing cloth items.

  • She learned to sew from her grandmother
  • He spent the afternoon sewing patches onto his old jeans
fasten

Use 'fasten' when you need to indicate the action of securing or attaching something in place, generally through a mechanical means like buttons, zippers, or latches.

  • Remember to fasten your seatbelt before the car starts moving
  • She fastened the necklace around her neck before leaving the house

Examples of usage

  • She tufted the headboard of the bed to give it a luxurious look.
  • The upholsterer tufted the armchair for added comfort.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Nature

  • Various plants, like grasses and mosses, often grow in tufts, helping them thrive in poor soil conditions.
  • Birds often use tufts of grass or feathers to create cozy nesting spots.
  • In the animal kingdom, a tuft of fur can help some animals appear larger to predators.

Pop Culture

  • Tufts of hair have appeared in many cartoon characters, often symbolizing their quirky personalities.
  • In fashion, tufting is used in upholstery to create a luxurious and textured look.
  • Tufted designs in art can symbolize comfort and coziness, often seen in textile patterns.

Foam & Textiles

  • Tufting is a technique in textile production where clusters of yarn are stitched to create patterns or textures.
  • This method is commonly used in bedding and carpet production, known for its durability and comfort.
  • Tufted fabrics are often associated with luxury, giving a soft touch to furniture and clothing.

Origin of 'tuft'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tuft' comes from the Old French 'tofe', which means a small cluster.
  • It was used in English during the 14th century to describe a cluster of feathers or hair.
  • The word has roots in the Middle English 'tofte', showing its evolution over time.

The word 'tuft' originated from the Old French word 'touffe' meaning a 'tuft, clump, or bush'. It has been used in English since the 14th century. The concept of tufts has been prevalent in various forms of decoration and nature, symbolizing beauty, elegance, and natural abundance.

See also: tufted.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,709, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.