puff
This word evokes a sense of lightness and suddenness, whether referring to a physical burst of air or a soft, rounded shape. It carries a tactile quality of airiness, as seen in both the meteorological sense of clouds and the culinary sense of pastries.
In a social or professional context, the word takes on a negative connotation of superficiality. When used to describe praise or publicity, it implies an artificial inflation of value, suggesting that the subject is being "blown up" to seem more impressive than it actually is.
Meanings
A small amount of smoke, powder, or vapor emitted in a burst.
A puff of smoke rose from the chimney.
A light, airy cake or pastry, often made with choux pastry.
She ordered a cream puff for dessert.
A short, exaggerated piece of publicity or praise for a product or person.
The movie review was little more than a puff for the lead actor.
A soft, rounded mass of something, such as a cloud or a piece of fabric.
The sky was filled with white puffs of clouds.
To swell or expand something by filling it with air.
He puffed out his cheeks in frustration.
Phrasal Verbs
puff out
to swell or expand by filling with air
He puffed out his chest to look more intimidating.
puff up
to swell or become inflated, often due to pride or injury
His ankle puffed up quickly after the sprain.
puff away
to smoke a pipe or cigar continuously
The old man sat on the porch, puffing away at his pipe.