Buff
/bʌf/noun
To strike, polish, or make something smooth; also, to strengthen or improve by practice.
Did you know?The adjective for a pale tan color comes from the leather of buffalo-hide gloves, while the verb “buff” developed from the idea of rubbing and polishing leather until it gleamed.
Etymological Timeline
16th Century
English
buff
“A strong, soft leather made from ox or buffalo hide”
16th Century
English
buffen
“To strike or beat”
17th Century
English
buff
“To polish by rubbing”
19th Century
English
buff
“An enthusiast or devoted admirer”
20th Century
English
buff
“A well-developed, muscular body or a person with one”