| Curfew | n. [ OE. courfew, curfu, fr. OF. cuevrefu, covrefeu, F. couvre-feu; covrir to cover + feu fire, fr. L. focus fireplace, hearth. See Cover, and Focus. ] 1. 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. [ 1913 Webster ] He begins at curfew, and walks till the first cock. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] The village curfew, as it tolled profound. Campbell. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. A utensil for covering the fire. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ] For pans, pots, curfews, counters and the like. Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ] |
