Meaning & Definition of word "Curfew"

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.