Cuffed

Cuffed is a word used as the past participle of the verb cuff and as an adjective in several contexts. The main senses are restraining with handcuffs, describing clothing with cuffs, and informal slang related to romantic relationships. The term appears across law enforcement, fashion, and contemporary speech.

In law enforcement and security contexts, to be cuffed means to have one’s wrists secured with handcuffs by a police officer or security agent. This denotes a temporary state during detention or processing and does not imply conviction. Handling and treatment of cuffs are guided by safety protocols and legal rights.

In fashion and apparel, cuffing refers to the edge of a sleeve or pant leg being folded, rolled, or sewn to form a cuff. Garments described as cuffed have this feature, which can influence fit and style. Examples include cuffed jeans or cuffed sleeves.

In slang, "cuffed" describes being in a committed romantic relationship. The term is often used in the context of "cuffing season," a colloquial reference to a period, typically in autumn or winter, when people seek steady partners.

Etymology generally traces cuff to senses of striking with a blow or binding with a restraint; the clothing and restraint senses share an origin related to the idea of enclosing or fastening. The past participle form is used to describe things that have been restrained, adorned with cuffs, or placed in a cuffed state.