bluff meaning and definition

BLUFF noun

Definition of bluff (noun)

1. a high steep bank (usually formed by river erosion)
2. pretense that your position is stronger than it really is
   • "his bluff succeeded in getting him accepted"
3. the act of bluffing in poker; deception by a false show of confidence in the strength of your cards
   • synonyms: four flush

BLUFF verb

Definition of bluff (verb)

1. deceive an opponent by a bold bet on an inferior hand with the result that the opponent withdraws a winning hand
   • synonyms: bluff out
2. frighten someone by pretending to be stronger than one really is

BLUFF adjective

Definition of bluff (adjective)

1. very steep; having a prominent and almost vertical front
   • "a bluff headland"; "where the bold chalk cliffs of England rise"; "a sheer descent of rock"
   • synonyms: bold, sheer
2. bluntly direct and outspoken but good-natured
   • "a bluff but pleasant manner"; "a bluff and rugged natural leader"