Definition of fluffy

The word "fluffy" has its roots in Old English. The adjective "flufen" or "flufian" meant "to thicken or pad" or "to stuff with fluff or down." This likely referred to the process of filling a garment or textile with soft, fine material like down or feathers. By the 14th century, the word had evolved to "fluf" or "fuffle," meaning "to become puffed out" or "to grow fat and smooth." This sense of the word is still seen in words like "influenza," which comes from the Latin "inflammare," meaning "to inflame" or "to puff up." The modern spelling and meaning of "fluffy" emerged in the 17th century, referring to something soft, downy, or feathery in texture or appearance. Today, the word is often used to describe everything from kittens' fur to pillowcases.