curfew

cur-few · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A regulation requiring people to remain indoors between specified hours.

  2. 2.

    The time at which a curfew begins.

  3. 3.

    A time by which someone, especially a young person, must be home.

Forms

plural: curfews

Related words

See also: lockdown, restriction
Synonyms: ban, restriction

Etymology

From Old French "cuevrefeu" (cover fire), from "couvrir" (to cover) + "feu" (fire). Originally referred to the medieval practice of covering fires at night for safety.