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in the buff
01
in a state of complete nudity
Humorous
Idiom
What is the origin of the idiom "in the buff" and when to use it?
The idiom "in the buff" originated in 17th century England, where "buff" referred to a yellowish-brown leather made from buffalo skin. Initially used to describe someone dressed in a buff-colored garment, the phrase evolved to signify complete nudity. It is believed to have undergone a playful transformation through wordplay. Nowadays, "in the buff" is an informal expression used to describe being completely naked, emphasizing the absence of clothing.
Examples
He answered the door in the buff by accident.
