eff

¹

[ ef ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. fuck:

   Stop effing around and get to work!

   Eff you, you lout!

noun

1. the word “fuck”; the f-word:

   peppering his speech with superfluous and highly offensive effs.

verb phrase

1. Go away!:

   Eff off and die, you piece of Martian scum!

eff.

²

abbreviation for

1. efficient, efficiency.
2. effective, effectiveness.

eff

/ ɛf /

verb

1. taboo.
   euphemism for fuck

   eff off

2. eff and blind slang.
   to use obscene language

Derived Forms

• ˈeffing, nounadjectiveadverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of eff¹

1940–45; euphemism for fuck, with eff as spelled form of the name of the initial letter

Example Sentences

Between sentiments like "Knock it off, wannabe pill popper," and "I think you give many effs," Dr. Ryan keeps Devi's attention with a friend-like rapport without diving into unprofessional territory.

From Salon

It explains why so many older women develop that fabulous “no effs given” attitude that sends them barging into the front of any line they see.

From Los Angeles Times

The water “effs” along; everything that comes down the river is some kind of “sprung”; time spent alone is “sheesh” time; and being called a “harpiedoodle” is not a compliment.

From New York Times

In that story, the poor rich boy ended up adrift and motherless; here, he’s unleashed himself upon the world with zero effs to give and a whole lot of lip to serve.

From Salon

“When you give zero effs about the summer body standards,” he said.

From New York Times