What Does "CUFF" Mean? The Complete Cuff Definition
The meaning of CUFF is a small but versatile one: a cuff is the folded or turned-back part at the end of a sleeve or trouser leg, or a band that finishes an opening. In everyday English, CUFF definition can also extend to the wrist area of a sleeve, especially when talking about shirts, jackets, or pants features. As a verb, to cuff can mean to strike lightly, to restrain with handcuffs, or to turn back a hem. The CUFF meaning in word games can be tricky because the word has multiple common senses.
The CUFF definition comes from Old French cuffe and related Germanic roots, and over time it developed both clothing and action-related meanings. When people ask what does CUFF mean, the answer depends on context: fashion, law enforcement, or casual speech. Because CUFF used in English spans noun and verb uses, it often appears in puzzles and vocabulary tests.
Cuff Synonyms: Words Similar to CUFF
CUFF synonyms include several words depending on the sense you mean.
- Hem — Similar in clothing contexts, but “hem” usually refers to the edge that is sewn rather than a folded wrist or ankle finish.
- Band — A general term for a strip or ring of material; it’s broader than CUFF and not limited to clothing.
- Turn-up — Common in British English for a folded trouser cuff, especially on pants and jeans.
- Manacle — A close match only when CUFF means handcuff or restraint; it’s more formal and usually plural.
- Restrain — Works for the verb sense of cuffing someone with handcuffs, though it is far less specific.
- Foldback — Describes the turned-back part of a sleeve or pant leg, but it is a descriptive phrase rather than a direct synonym.
How to Use "CUFF" in a Sentence: Real Examples
Here are a few clear examples of CUFF in a sentence.
- The tailor shortened the pants and added a neat cuff at the bottom.
- Police officers may cuff a suspect if the situation requires restraint.
- His shirt cuffs were worn and frayed after years of use.
- She rolled up the sleeve and left the cuff slightly undone for a casual look.
CUFF in NYT Connections #1125 — Why Did It Appear?
In NYT Connections #1125 on 2026-04-12, CUFF appeared in the Yellow category, which was the hardest group, titled It belonged with and , all parts of clothing construction or design. That made the important to spot quickly, because players had to think of pants anatomy rather than the more obvious handcuff or sleeve sense. For anyone searching , the was a test of vocabulary plus theme recognition.