nonce-wd. [Two formations: a. f. buff in BLINDMAN’S BUFF; b. suggested by phrase to stand buff (see BUFF sb.1).] In phrase To buff it: a. to play blindman’s buff (also fig.); b. to stand firm, resist.
1608. Day, Hum. out of Br., IV. iii. (1881), 67. Blindmans buffe? I haue bufft it fairely, and mine owne gullery grieues me not half so much as the Dukes displeasure.
1822. T. Mitchell, Aristoph., II. 84. Tuck yourself up, and buff it like a man.
