The word "bluffs" has several possible etymologies:
Anglo-French: "bluffen," meaning "to bluff or deceive." This term originated in the 16th century and likely derived from the French "bluffer," which means "to puff up."
Old Norse: "bluffa," meaning "a steep cliff or bank." This term may have been brought to England by Viking raiders and settlers.
English Dialect: "bluff," meaning "a steep-sided hill or headland." This term was first recorded in the 14th century.
Meaning of "Bluffs"
The term "bluffs" has several related meanings:
A bluff of land: A high, steep cliff or bank, especially along a river, lake, or ocean.
A bluff (in gambling): A bet or raise made with the intention of deceiving an opponent into believing that one has a stronger hand than they actually do.
To bluff: To deceive or intimidate someone by pretending to be more confident or powerful than one actually is.
Usage Examples:
"The ship sailed close to the towering bluffs of the coastline."
"He called my bluff and raised the stakes, forcing me to reveal my weak hand."
"The politician bluffed his way through the interview, making bold claims without providing any evidence."
