5 entries found for bluff.
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Main Entry: 1bluff
Pronunciation: blf
Function: adjective
Etymology: from an obsolete Dutch word blaf "flat" 1: rising steeply with a broad front <a bluff coastline> 2: frank and outspoken in a good-natured manner - bluff·lyadverb - bluff·nessnoun synonymsBLUFF, BLUNT, CURT mean speaking in a frank rough manner. BLUFF usually suggests hearty and good-natured roughness <farmers talking in a bluff manner>. BLUNT may suggest plain speech that disregards the feelings of others <a blunt appraisal of the student's work>. CURT usually suggests briefness of speech that is upsetting or rude <a curt reply to a polite question>.