putoff

[ poot-awf, -of ]

noun

1. an act or instance of putting off.
2. a delaying, postponing, or avoiding of something.
3. an expressed excuse or evasion; demur:

   She responded with a polite but firm putoff.

Word History and Origins

Origin of putoff¹

First recorded in 1540–50; noun use of verb phrase put off

Example Sentences

When passing Malden he was hailed from the fort, but as he paid no attention, Major Putoff fired a shot to make the vessel heave-to and leave the mail.

From Project Gutenberg