bluff
UK: blʌf | US: blʌf
n. 1. A steep cliff or bank, often by a river or coast.
n. 2. A deceptive act or false display of confidence to mislead others.
vt. 1. To deceive or intimidate someone by pretending to be stronger or more confident than one is.
The word "bluff" likely entered English in the 17th century from Dutch blaf or blaff, meaning "flat, broad," originally describing a ship's broad bow or a cliff's vertical face. By the 19th century, it evolved metaphorically to describe deceptive boldness, possibly influenced by poker players feigning confidence with a "bluff" (like a cliff's imposing but hollow appearance).
The castle stood atop a high bluff overlooking the river.
His confident demeanor was just a bluff to hide his nervousness.
She bluffed her way through the interview without proper qualifications.
The poker player won the game with a well-timed bluff.
Don’t be fooled by his bluff—he’s actually quite inexperienced.