cuff1

 
Pronunciation: /kʌf/

noun

  • 1the end part of a sleeve, where the material of the sleeve is turned back or a separate band is sewn on: a red dress with a white lace collar and cuffs
  • the part of a glove covering the wrist.
  • North American a trouser turn-up: a pair of faded denims with the cuffs rolled up
  • the top part of a boot, typically padded or turned down: the ankle cuff provided support without restricting my movement
  • 2 (cuffs) informal handcuffs: when the cuffs went on he had braced his wrists
  • 3an inflatable bag wrapped round the arm when blood pressure is measured.

verb

[with object] informal
  • secure with handcuffs: the man’s hands were cuffed behind his back

Phrases

off the cuff

informal without preparation: they posed some difficult questions to answer off the cuff [as modifier]: an off-the-cuff remark
[as if from impromptu notes made on one's shirt cuffs]

Derivatives

cuffed

adjective
[in combination]: a double-cuffed striped shirt

Origin:

late Middle English (denoting a glove or mitten): of unknown origin