Tufted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🦚
Add to dictionary

tufted

[ˈtʌftɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

softness of texture

Having or covered with tufts; tufted.

Synonyms

feathery, fluffy, furry.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
tufted

Used to describe upholstery or items made with tufts for a decorative effect.

  • The tufted headboard gave a sophisticated touch to the bedroom
  • The tufted buttons on the sofa made it both stylish and comfortable
fluffy

Describes something that is soft and light, often used to describe materials like pillows or animals with thick, soft fur.

  • She loved her fluffy kitten that napped on her lap
  • The pancakes were so fluffy, they practically melted in the mouth
feathery

Used to describe something light, delicate, and resembling or made of feathers.

  • The dress had a feathery trim that fluttered with every step
  • The clouds looked feathery against the blue sky
furry

Often describes something that is covered with fur, typically used for animals or objects resembling animal fur.

  • The dog had a furry coat that required regular grooming
  • Children were fascinated by the furry toy that looked like a real animal

Examples of usage

  • The tufted cushions added a touch of luxury to the sofa.
  • The tufted fabric felt soft and comfortable against her skin.
Context #2 | Noun

ornithology

A distinctively rounded mass of feathers on the head or wings of a bird.

Synonyms

crest, plume, topknot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
tufted

Typically refers to something that has clusters of feathers, fur, or hair. Often used in descriptions of animals, plants, or furniture with such characteristics.

  • The tufted ducks were swimming gracefully in the pond
  • The new sofa has a tufted, luxurious design
crest

Often used to describe the top part of a bird's head, where feathers form a distinctive peak. Can also refer to the top of a wave or the highest point of a hill.

  • The cockatoo's crest stood erect as it squawked loudly
  • From the crest of the hill, the view of the valley was breathtaking
plume

Best used to describe a large, showy feather or a group of feathers, often used for decoration. Can also refer to a cloud of smoke, dust, or steam.

  • She wore a hat adorned with a beautiful ostrich plume
  • A plume of smoke rose from the factory
topknot

Refers to a bun or knot of hair positioned on the top of the head. Common in certain hairstyles or cultural traditions.

  • The samurai combed back his hair into a tight topknot
  • She adorned her casual look with a stylish topknot

Examples of usage

  • The tufted puffin has striking orange tufts on its head.
  • The owl's tufted appearance helps it blend in with tree bark.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Nature

  • In nature, tufted plants like tufted hairgrass thrive in meadows and wetlands, characterized by their clumped growth.
  • Birds like the tufted titmouse are named for the distinctive tuft of feathers atop their head, a recognizable feature in avian identification.
  • Many animals benefit from tufted fur or feathers, helping with insulation or display during mating seasons.

Art and Design

  • Tufted carpets and textiles are crafted using a technique where yarn is pushed through a backing fabric to create plush designs.
  • The tufting process can be traced back to ancient cultures, showing its long-standing importance in home decor.
  • Tufted furniture, like sofas and chairs, often features buttons that pull the fabric together into soft, inviting designs.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, tufted styles in clothing, such as tassels, have historically signified status and artistry.
  • The tufted cap, a fashion item from the past, was often worn by scholars and artisans, symbolizing creativity and intelligence.
  • In some Native American tribes, tufted items made from animal fibers are used in traditional ceremonies, adding a layer of cultural meaning.

Origin of 'tufted'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tuft' comes from Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'tuf', meaning a bunch or cluster.
  • Historically, a tuft referred to decorative finishes on clothing and textiles, showing its relation to fashion.
  • The term has evolved to include various contexts, from botany (plant clusters) to design (furniture upholstery).

The word 'tufted' originated from the Middle French word 'touffe', meaning a tuft or clump of something. It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe things with clusters or bunches, such as tufted cushions or tufted birds like the tufted puffin. The use of 'tufted' to describe a soft, textured surface emerged later to emphasize the plush and luxurious qualities associated with tufts of fabric or feathers.


See also: tuft.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,580, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.