Meaning & Definition of word "Curfew"

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    Curfew

    /ˈkɜːr.fjuː/

    noun:

    • 1. A regulation requiring people to remain indoors during specified hours, typically at night.
      • Example: The city imposed a curfew to help control the spread of the virus.
    • 2. A time by which a person, especially a child or teenager, is expected to be home.
      • Example: Her parents set a curfew of 10 PM on school nights.
    • 3. A time limit or deadline for a specific activity.
      • Example: The curfew for submitting the application is fast approaching.

    Etymology

    From Old French 'couvre-feu', meaning 'cover fire', originally referring to the time to extinguish lights.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    under curfew:

    Restricted to staying indoors during specified hours.

    impose a curfew:

    To officially set a rule requiring people to remain indoors.

    curfew violation:

    The act of breaking the curfew rules.

    Related Words

    restriction:

    A rule limiting what one can do.

    nighttime:

    The period of the day when it is dark outside.

    regulation:

    A rule or directive made and maintained by an authority.

    Slang Meanings of curfew

    Meaning: Staying in at night without going out.

    Example Sentence: I'm on curfew tonight, so I'm just chilling at home.

    Meaning: A time limit imposed by parents for teens.

    Example Sentence: Dad says my curfew is 11 PM, or I'll be grounded.