bluff
UK[blʌf]US[blʌf]
v
to try to deceive someone by making them think you are stronger, have more information, or are going to do something, when this is not true
n
an attempt to deceive someone by making them think you are stronger, have more information, or are going to do something, when this is not true
n
a steep cliff or bank, especially one formed by a river or the sea
Etymology
the word 'bluff' presents a fascinating etymological journey with two distinct meanings emerging from different sources. the primary sense relating to deception or pretense likely stems from the dutch nautical term 'bluffen', meaning 'to make a broad appearance at sea' or figuratively 'to boast'. this was adopted into english in the context of card games, describing a bold, deceptive bet. the secondary geographical meaning, referring to a steep cliff or headland, is believed to have a separate, low german origin related to 'blaff', meaning 'flat' or 'broad', describing the cliff's appearance. over time, the two homographs merged in spelling, creating a single english word with two logically distinct yet vivid meanings: one of deceptive boldness and one of imposing, broad-faced topography.
Analysis
the word 'bluff' is a simplex word of uncertain origin. it likely entered english in the 17th century from the dutch language, related to words like 'bluffen' (to brag or boast) and 'verbluffen' (to baffle or mislead). its core semantic role is to convey the concept of deception or intimidation.
Examples
he successfully bluffed his way through the job interview.
the threat to resign was just a clever bluff to get more resources.
the old lighthouse stood on a high bluff overlooking the bay.