puffing
|puff-ing|
/ˈpʌfɪŋ/
(puff)
short burst
Etymology
'puff' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'puffen', likely of imitative (echoic) origin representing a short explosive breath or sound.
'puff' changed from Middle English 'puffen' and eventually became the modern English word 'puff' through regular sound and spelling simplification in Early Modern English.
Initially, it meant 'a short explosive breath or sound'; over time it broadened to include 'emit smoke/steam in short bursts', 'inflate/swell', and figuratively 'exaggerated praise'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
short, explosive breaths or small jets of air or smoke (a 'puff' in repeated form).
The puffing from the vent became louder as the heater kicked on.
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Noun 2
promotional exaggeration or boasting (legal and advertising sense: 'mere puffing').
Many of the claims in that ad are just puffing rather than factual statements.
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Verb 1
breathing or exhaling in short, forceful breaths (often from exertion).
After running up the stairs she was puffing and needed a moment to rest.
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Last updated: 2026/01/02 14:26