Part of Russian speech was borrowed from foreign languages during the period of active expansion, after which it spread among the people and acquired many original interpretations. But only some of the meanings are in demand among the carriers, and therefore gain recognition. Other meanings go into slang or become regional. Well demonstrates this "cuff", known to representatives of all generations. What is hidden behind a short word that most Russians do not even suspect?
Southern Roots
Usually statements include a colloquial term in situations where beatings need to be discussed. Although there is an alternative version. Moreover, both came from the Turkic languages:
- tuqmaq - punch;
- tumaq - fur hat.
The first is considered colloquial and basic. It has been used for many generations in a very specific context of an upcoming or past fight. The second one remained at the regional level and points to headdresses.
Little Known Facts
The layman will be pretty surprised when he looks into the dictionaries. For example, in zoologythe meaning of the word "tumak" is a synonym for "tuna", they are interchangeable and equally clear to professionals. The same science once brought out a special kind of ferrets of the same name. This fact leads to less common transcripts:
- stupid person;
- hybrid, crossbreed;
- dyed rabbit fur;
- three, hat with ears.
The fur version is specialized and rarely heard. But the “hybrid” gave a name to many interspecies hybrids, among which pairs became especially popular:
- hares, hare and hare;
- ferret with mink;
- pedigreed dog and wolf.
Various duets are acceptable, although other names are usually used for them. Allegorically, the speaker can insult the interlocutor, pointing out his dubious origin and, as a result, an insufficient level to be in the circle of decent people.
Daily communication
How not to get confused in a multitude of meanings? Most of the phrases where there is a “cuff” are everyday conversations. Most likely, we are talking about cuffs or beatings. The context is not the best, in its framework the concept serves as a warning or informs about the danger.
On the other hand, due to less common interpretations, it is worth adding to the lexicon and remembering. Of course, you will not immediately remember hybridization or a painted hare, but you will not get lost when communicating in slang. It is quite possible that a friend is trying to tell you about the origin of a charming puppy or explain the strange cheapnessexotic fur headdress in outlandish colors.
