Curfew
['kɜːfjuː] or ['kɝfju]
Definition
(noun.) an order that after a specific time certain activities (as being outside on the streets) are prohibited.
(noun.) a signal (usually a bell) announcing the start of curfew restrictions.
(noun.) the time that the curfew signal is sounded.
Checked by Dolores--From WordNet
Definition
(n.) The ringing of an evening bell, originally a signal to the inhabitants to cover fires, extinguish lights, and retire to rest, -- instituted by William the Conqueror; also, the bell itself.
(n.) A utensil for covering the fire.
Checked by Kathy
Definition
n. in feudal times the ringing of a bell at eight o'clock as a signal to put out all fires and lights.
Checker: Michelle
Examples
- The word curfew is derived from the French couvre-feu, meaning cover fire. Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
- Moreover to light a fire is the instinctive and resistant act of man when, at the winter ingress, the curfew is sounded throughout Nature. Thomas Hardy. The Return of the Native.
- The ringing of the curfew originated in England by William the Conqueror, who directed that at the ringing of the bell at eight o’clock all fires and lights should be extinguished. Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
- How did the Ringing of the Curfew Originate? Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
- In the United States an ordinance establishing a curfew, with the purpose of keeping young people off the streets, has existed in Salem, Mass. Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
- Wamba presently appeared to urge the same request, observing that a cup after midnight was worth three after curfew. Walter Scott. Ivanhoe.
Inputed by Leila