bluff

/ˈbləf/

obsolete Dutch blaf flat; akin to Middle Low German blaff smooth

adjective

  1. having a broad flattened front

  2. rising steeply with a broad flat or rounded front

  3. good-naturedly frank and outspoken

a ship with bluff bows

the bluff banks of the river

bluff blunt brusque curt crusty gruff mean abrupt and unceremonious in speech and manner. bluff connotes good-natured outspokenness and unconventionality. blunt suggests directness of expression in disregard of others' feelings.

noun

  1. a high steep bank : cliff

stood on the bluffs overlooking the ocean

verb

  1. to deter or frighten by pretense or a mere show of strength

  2. deceive

  3. feign

bluffed them into surrendering

bluff her way in without a ticket