As a noun, a cuff is the end of a sleeve or pant leg, often folded or sewn with extra fabric, or a band worn around the wrist. As a verb, to cuff is to hit someone lightly with an open hand, usually on the head or ear.
The clothing sense may come from Scandinavian roots related to a ‘swelling’ or ‘bulge’ of fabric. The hitting sense might be imitative of the soft sound or feel of a light slap.
Cuffs on clothes started out practical—extra fabric at the ends where things wear out fastest. The verb ‘to cuff’ someone is like the social version: a quick, mild correction at the edge of acceptable behavior.
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