What does CHUFF mean?

Chuff 1. Parts of Speech

Chuff is a verb and a noun.

2. Definitions

As a verb, chuff means to move with a regular puffing sound, like a steam engine. As a noun, it refers to the sound of a steam engine or to a rude or boorish person.

3. Pronunciations (US, UK)

US: /tʃʌf/

UK: /tʃʌf/

4. Origin and Usage

The word chuff originated from the Middle English word "chaffen," which means to puff or blow. It was first used in the 19th century to describe the sound of a steam engine. The noun form of chuff, which refers to a rude or boorish person, was first recorded in the early 20th century.

5. Synonyms

As a verb, synonyms for chuff include puff, huff, and snort. As a noun, synonyms for chuff include boor, lout, and oaf.

6. Related Words

Chuff is related to the words chuffa, chuffy, and chufa.

7. Example Sentences

As a verb:

• The old steam engine chuffed along the tracks.
• She chuffed on her cigarette and blew smoke rings into the air.

As a noun:

• He was a chuff who always talked with his mouth full.
• The chuff of the steam engine could be heard from miles away.