eff
UK[ɛf]US[ɛf]
v
To make an effort; to attempt or try, especially in a tentative or hesitant way.
n
A person who is incompetent, foolish, or ineffectual (chiefly British, vulgar slang).
Etymology
The word "eff" is a modern English euphemism, originating in the 20th century. It functions as a phonetic abbreviation, taking the initial letter sound of the taboo verb it replaces. This process of clipping and substitution is common in language to allow for the expression of strong emotion or vulgar concepts in more socially acceptable terms. As a verb, its meaning softened from its vulgar origin to denote a general sense of making an attempt, often clumsily. The British slang noun usage, denoting a foolish person, retains a stronger pejorative force directly linked to its original, offensive source.
Analysis
The word "eff" is a simplex word. It is a clipped form and euphemistic alteration of the vulgar verb "fuck," used as a verb and, in British slang, as a noun.
Examples
He didn't know how to fix it, so he just effed about with the wires until it worked.
Don't be such a complete eff.
I'll eff and blind a bit, but I'll get the job done.