verb / noun
bluff
BLUHF/blʌf/
A pretense of confidence, strength, or intent meant to deceive.
The poker player bluffs by pushing forward chips with a weak hand.
Etymology
The verb is recorded as a poker term for projecting confidence with a worthless hand. A connection with Dutch bluffen ‘boast’ or verbluffen ‘mislead’ is possible, not established.
In context
Okafor tried to bluff his way past Maimalari’s guards by claiming he had come to take over guard duties from them. But the guards were not buying it.
More examples
- She called his bluff and asked for proof.
- Their threat turned out to be a bluff.
- We bluffed our way past the awkward question.
Forms
bluff · bluffs · bluffed · bluffing
bluffer noun — someone who pretends confidence to deceive