How Do You Spell CURFEW?

Pronunciation: [kˈɜːfjuː] (IPA)

The word "curfew" is spelled /ˈkɜrfjuː/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced with an open-mid front unrounded vowel /ɜ/, followed by a voiceless velar fricative /f/. The second syllable is pronounced with a close front unrounded vowel /iː/, and the word ends with a voiced alveolar approximant /r/ and a close back unrounded vowel /uː/. This spelling represents the pronunciation of the word in standard British English, while the American English pronunciation may vary slightly with differences in regional dialects.

CURFEW Meaning and Definition

  1. Curfew refers to a specific time set by a governing authority during which certain regulations and restrictions are imposed, requiring individuals to remain indoors or restrict their movements in public places. Typically implemented during a specific period, such as at night, curfews are primarily aimed at maintaining public order, safety, and security.

    The primary purpose of a curfew is to curb or deter criminal activities, minimize potential risks to public safety, and reduce the likelihood of illegal behavior. By mandating specific times for people to be indoors, a curfew can help law enforcement control and monitor movements, ensuring the well-being of both individuals and society as a whole. Curfews are frequently imposed during emergencies, natural disasters, civil unrest, or times of heightened security concerns.

    Violations of curfew regulations often carry legal repercussions, such as fines, penalties, or even arrest, depending on the severity of the offense and the respective laws of a particular jurisdiction. Additionally, exemptions to curfews may exist for certain individuals, such as emergency personnel, healthcare workers, or those with specific permits or authorization.

    Curfews have a long historical background, dating back to ancient times, where they were used by rulers to maintain control over their territories. Today, they remain an important tool employed by governments and local authorities to safeguard public order and ensure the safety of their communities.

  2. Informer times, the ringing of an evening (8 o'clock) bell, as a signal to the people to cover up fires, put out lights, and retire to rest.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for CURFEW *

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Other Common Misspellings for CURFEW

Etymology of CURFEW

The word "curfew" is derived from the Old French term "cuevre-feu", which can be translated as "cover fire". This term refers to a regulation imposed during medieval times in Europe, specifying that all household fires and lights should be covered or extinguished at a particular time in the evening, usually signaled by the ringing of a bell. The purpose of the curfew was to prevent fires from spreading and to maintain public order. Over time, the term "cuevre-feu" evolved into the Middle English word "curfew", which took on the broader meaning of a regulation that restricts people from being outside their homes during a specified time, often during the night.

Similar spelling words for CURFEW

Plural form of CURFEW is CURFEWS

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